Mercedes-Benz eVito review

We find out if a new battery and better specifications can help the Mercedes-Benz eVito challenge the best mid-sized electric vans

The Mercedes-Benz eVito entered the UK market in 2020 as the first fully electric medium-sized van. Initially a groundbreaking offering, it quickly fell behind rivals due to a disappointingly limited range and low payload capacity.

Mercedes has addressed some of these shortcomings in the latest model—primarily by adding a new battery—so it now offers improved range, faster charging, and enhanced specifications. But how does it measure up to its competitors in an increasingly crowded electric van market?

Design, interior, and technology

From the outside, the eVito is virtually identical to its diesel counterpart, with only subtle badging and a charging port in the front bumper setting it apart. The interior follows a similar theme, featuring a recently updated cabin design that integrates a 10.25-inch touchscreen into the dashboard. Some buttons for frequently used controls like air conditioning are nice to have, although they can be challenging to pick out, especially in the dark.

The infotainment centre is also a little clunky, with some options hidden away in menus that don’t always make sense. Still, there’s now Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, meaning drivers can simply use the maps, streaming and features they’re used to.

Beyond that, the cab is distinctively Mercedes, which means there’s a single column stalk that controls lights and wipers and another column stalk for the gear selector. The steering wheel has touch-sensitive controls for various systems, which are handy but awkwardly respond to accidental touches when turning the wheel. It’s all wrapped up in a modern dashboard with stylish touches like the jet-engine air vents and chrome detailing on the steering wheel.

Battery, motor, and performance

At the heart of the eVito now sits a larger 60kWh battery, almost double the capacity of the launch model’s pack. This update boosts the official WLTP range up to 160 miles, a considerable improvement over the previous 92 miles. The wilds of Cambridgeshire might not give the eVito the most thorough of tests — the lack of hills tends to help EVs perform better — but a real-world 140 miles from the van in freezing temperatures isn’t too shabby.

The battery drives a 114bhp motor at the front of the van, which is enough to make the Mercedes-Benz eVito feel quite lively around town, but it’s slow off the line and soon starts to feel sluggish at speed. Despite the theoretically instant 266lb ft of torque available, there’s enough of a pause to make pulling into a tight gap more challenging than it needs to be.

Once up to speed, it settles into a comfortable, quiet rhythm. Economy, Economy Plus, and Comfort driving modes — thankfully, there’s no Sport mode — allow users to manage performance and battery efficiency effectively. Regen modes, controlled via paddle shifters, also let drivers fine-tune energy recuperation from braking to maximise range.

Charging times have also been improved. An 80kW rapid charger can achieve a 10-80% top-up in around 35 minutes, while a full charge via an 11kW wall box takes approximately six and a half hours.

Mercedes-Benz eVito payload and practicality

The eVito comes in two lengths: L2 (Long) and L3 (Extra-Long), although only the entry-level Pro model is available with the extended body. Both configurations offer impressive cargo volumes of 6.0m3 and 6.6m3, respectively, thanks to the underfloor battery placement, which doesn’t impact load space. That’s more than you’ll get in a Vauxhall Vivaro, but the payload limits aren’t anywhere near as competitive — our L2 van in Select trim was limited to 783kg, but the range only tops out at 794kg, which is at least 200kg below its rivals.

There are sliding doors on each side of the van and rear barn-style doors that fold to 180 degrees. A tailgate that swings upwards is available at no extra cost. With a low loading height of 565mm, access to the load area is easy.

Price and specification

Mercedes doesn’t have a reputation for being cheap, and electric vans tend to be quite a bit more costly than their diesel counterparts. The eVito proves both points, starting from £48,530 for the entry-level Pro model — over £15,000 more than the equivalent ICE version and £5,000–6,000 more than a longer-range Ford E-Transit Custom or Vauxhall Vivaro Electric.

While the Pro model is well equipped, upgrading to the Select model for £3,385 only adds a 360-degree camera and folding mirrors as significant upgrades. The Select is pretty, though, with body-coloured bumpers, alloy wheels, and chrome highlights making it look every inch a Mercedes. Each model is eligible for the government’s plug-in van grant, reducing the price by £5,000.

While the eVito’s upfront cost is higher than diesel alternatives, its running costs are competitive. Take depreciation out of the mix, and it costs only a few pence per mile to run, saving money even against a Vivaro Electric, thanks to four services being included in the price. However, with a high purchase price and heavy depreciation, you’ll have to cover a galactic level of miles to make up for increased capital costs. The Mercedes includes ongoing Mobilovan breakdown assistance, though, and is backed by a three-year unlimited mileage warranty.

Verdict

Since its initial launch, the Mercedes-Benz eVito has improved greatly. It now has a modernised cab and a more usable battery range that can be charged quickly, making it a viable option for fleets, especially those spending time in urban areas where ultra-low emission zone fees can be avoided. The eVito also has the Mercedes quality you’d expect and feels like it’ll last for decades.

However, the 160-mile range is still a little short if you’re expecting to plough up and down the motorways. Buyers will be looking jealously at the passenger version of the eVito with its significantly larger 100kWh battery pack.

It’s also a little light on payload, falling short of excellent (and cheaper) electric rivals like the Ford E-Transit Custom and Vauxhall Vivaro Electric.

Splashing out on the eVito will provide buyers with a comfortable, stylish and dynamic van with the premium aftercare support Mercedes is known for, but it’s a lot of money to spend on looking good.

Mercedes-Benz eVito Select L2 81kWh Panel Van

• Price: £51,195 plus VAT and OTR
• Powertrain: front-motor, front-wheel-drive
• Battery: 60kWh
• Power: 114bhp
• Torque: 266lb ft
• Top speed: 75mph
• 0-62mph: N/A
• Range: 159 miles
• Consumption: 2.3 m/kWh
• Charging: up to 120kW