With a range of around 130 km (81 miles), the E-CELL is designed for short routes involving numerous stops.

Mercedes has introduced a new version of its Vito E-CELL electric van – a seven-seat passenger van called the Crewbus. The company unveiled the new commercial EV at this week’s Geneva Motor Show, where it is also displaying a transparent model of the Vito E-CELL that demonstrates how an EV works, with LEDs showing the flow of current from the battery via the control electronics to the drive shafts.

With a range of around 130 km (81 miles), the E-CELL is designed for short routes involving numerous stops. The 60-kW motor is located under the hood, and drives the front wheels. The lithium-ion traction batteries are under the passenger compartment floor. Speed is electronically limited to 89 kph (55 mph) to preserve maximum range. The Crewbus features a driver’s airbag and safety belts for each seat.

The Vito E-CELL has now been in service for a full year. The 230 units operating in promotion schemes in Germany have covered around 650,000 km.

Image: Irekia