MERCEDES-BENZ’S long-promised T-Class is one other step nearer to actuality with the debut of the Idea EQT; an all-electric compact van previewing the production-spec T-Class and its battery-electric counterpart.
Destined to go toe-to-toe with future iterations of the Renault Kangoo and Volkswagen Caddy, the T-Class will reportedly be accessible in each business and other people mover guises with the electrical model trying to be the primary business member of Mercedes’ quickly increasing EQ portfolio.
Described by Mercedes as a ‘near-series-production idea car’, many of the styling options flaunted on the Idea EQT ought to make it throughout to the completed product.
The entrance finish is dominated by the big however sweeping mesh grille outlined by a flowing piece of chrome trim and matched on the high by a set of slimline LED headlights.
Shifting again alongside the physique, the Idea EQT flaunts a low window and hip line which ought to lead to first rate visibility for each the driving force and passengers alike whereas the excessive roof will guarantee loads of headroom for all occupants as nicely.
Daimler Group chief design officer Gorden Wagener mentioned the Idea EQT was designed underneath the ‘Sensual Purity’ philosophy.
“Sensuous shapes, elegant trims and sustainable supplies present that this van clearly belongs to our Mercedes-EQ household,” he mentioned.
Measuring in at 4945mm lengthy, 1863mm extensive and 1826mm tall, sliding facet doorways are featured on each side for max accessibility and practicality whereas the individuals mover model sports activities three rows of seating.
Reflecting the electrical powertrain lurking underneath the pores and skin, the inside of the Idea EQT has been upholstered in white recycled leather-based with matching highlights on the steering wheel and dashboard.
Contrasted towards the black sprint, the entire key controls – steering wheel, gear selector and instrument panel – appear to pop in a very eye-catching manner.
Unsurprisingly infotainment duties come courtesy of the model’s proprietary MBUX system which on this occasion boasts synthetic intelligence and studying capabilities, stay visitors data and over-the-air updates.
A panoramic sunroof provides an additional whiff of luxurious and helps to make the cabin much more ethereal when paired with the tall glasshouse.
In a bid to stress the car’s versatility, Mercedes has fitted its newest idea with an built-in electrical longboard which even it says is a “reasonably shocking function.”
No particulars have been revealed as to the Idea EQT’s powertrain at this stage nevertheless we might count on the manufacturing model to function the same, if not the identical association because the EQA and EQB SUVs given its ‘small’ van classification.
Fore reference, the present EQA and EQB ranges develop between 140-215kW and 375-520Nm courtesy of each single and dual-motor drivetrains, all paired to a 66.5kWh lithium-ion battery.
In accordance with Mercedes-Benz Vans boss Marcus Breitschwerdt, the T-Cross vary will enchantment to personal and family-minded prospects who’ve a watch for leisure and flexibility.
“The T-Class offers them with a gorgeous introduction into the world of Mercedes-Benz,” he mentioned.
“And because the Idea EQT reveals: We’re constantly implementing our declare to management in electromobility and also will offer a totally electrical mannequin on this phase sooner or later.”
Mercedes-Benz Vans Australia has offered 1372 new automobiles thus far this 12 months ending April, marking a 25.6 per cent gross sales slip in comparison with the 1845 models shifted over the identical interval final 12 months.
Of these 1372 deliveries, 803 of them have been the full-sized Sprinter.
