Mercedes-Benz Vans, Renault Trucks, Milence and more

Mercedes-Benz Vans has given a sneak peek at its "Vision V" showcar, providing a glimpse into the future direction of its commercial vehicles. The concept vehicle is designed to combine spaciousness with maximum exclusivity, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern, technology-driven design. The official unveiling of the Vision V is planned for April 2025.

Starting in 2026, the modular and scalable Van Electric Architecture (VAN.EA) will form the foundation for a new era of Mercedes-Benz Vans. This platform will enable a diverse range of models, from family vehicles and exclusive VIP shuttles to luxury limousines, addressing a variety of customer needs.

In collaboration with concrete transport specialist Schwing Stetter, Renault Trucks has developed the E-Tech C 10×4, a five-axle fully electric concrete mixer. This model is designed to carry up to 10 cubic meters of concrete, offering a sustainable alternative for the construction industry. Despite the added weight of the batteries, the five-axle configuration is expected to enable a high payload without compromising maneuverability. Exact technical specifications on power, energy capacity, and charging power are still undisclosed, but the range is expected to be 110 kilometers, with a 45-minute recharge allowing for up to 140 kilometers. The E-Tech C 10×4 will be showcased for the first time in April 2025.

The truck charging park operator Milence has launched its first megawatt charging stations (MCS) at the Antwerp-Bruges Port. This technology allows for significantly faster charging of electric trucks compared to existing CCS systems. The MCS chargers will operate at up to 1,440 kW (1,500 A, 1,000 V), potentially reducing charging times by around 90%. Milence plans to deploy a total of 284 MCS charging points across 71 locations in 10 EU member states, including Germany, Belgium, and France, by 2027.

Bosch has developed a new 800-volt electric drive for construction machinery. The system consists of the SMG230 electric motor and an inverter with silicon carbide power modules. The motor is designed for system voltages between 400 and 850 volts and delivers a continuous power output of up to 200 kW and torque of around 250 Nm, with the potential for up to 550 Nm of torque in the short term. The 800-volt technology significantly enhances power density, enabling more compact designs and lighter weight. The inverter is expected to achieve an efficiency of over 99%.

As part of the IMoGer project, a team from the fields of science and industry is investigating the potential uses of modular e-vans in public transportation and freight transport. A fleet of U-Shift vehicles will be tested in Braunschweig, Germany under the leadership of the German Aerospace Center (DLR). These vehicles are notable for their flexible design, allowing quick reconfiguration for different operational scenarios. The safety of the overall system will be ensured through technical oversight and intelligent traffic infrastructure. The project aims to improve efficiency and sustainability in urban transportation by testing flexible and environmentally friendly transport solutions. IMoGer is also working to lay the groundwork for the regular operation of automated services and prepare the entire process from certification to practical application, as stated in an official release.