Near-production Mercedes-Benz EQT concept previews new T-Class van coming in 2022

Mercedes-Benz is adding to its van line-up with the 5/7-seater T-Class in 2022, and the recently revealed EQT concept previews the styling of what will be the entry point to the Mercedes luxury van family. Based on the upcoming new-gen Mercedes-Benz Citan, which will continue to be the smallest van currently in the line-up, the T-Class and electric EQT add to that model's utilitarian bones with more lifestyle and luxury appointments in the cabin, not to mention MBUX tech, and a panoramic sunroof. 

Styling follows in the vein of other EQ vehicles in Mercedes-Benz's all-electric line-up, including the curvaceous styling at the front end, the 3D-star effect fascia, and all LED lighting. The EQT concept rides on 21-inch wheels but we expect that production version to ride on 18/19-inch wheels. The interiors are a familiar Mercedes van layout, with the concept adding luxurious Nappa leather upholstery and EQ-specific trim. The T-Class/EQT will offer both 5- and 7-seater configurations, with third row seating that can be removed to reveal a fully flat cargo bay. Safety tech will include the standard list of active safety systems including adaptive cruise control, emergency braking and lane keep assist to name a few. 

Specific powertrain details on the EQT concept haven't been revealed but as the T-Class line has been developed in partnership with Renault, we expect the production-version of the EQT to use an electric powertrain borrowed from the Renault Kangoo Z.E, namely a 44kWh battery pack and a 102PS electric motor, with a claimed driving range of 265km (WLTP). The T-Class will offer a range of petrol and diesel engines, again similar to the Renault Kangoo, which could include a 1.2-litre turbo petrol, and a 1.5-litre diesel. Notably, the T-Class and EQT will be based on Renault's CMF-B platform. 

For perspective, the EQT concept (and consequently, the T-Class) measures in at 4,945mm long, 1,863mm wide and 1,826mm tall, putting its overall footprint some ways off the Mercedes-Benz V-Class' LWB's 5,370mm overall length, the model that's on sale in India and which has seen reasonable success given its positioning.