Diverse range of applications in local emission-free passenger transport
The Mercedes-Benz Vito E-CELL crewbus lends itself to a broad scope of applications: in particular, for the first time ever it offers companies a local emission-free and also highly comfortable means of organising the short-range transportation of passengers on shuttle services or internal company transport services. Apart from restaurants and hotels in downtown locations with restricted access, the Vito E-CELL crewbus is also a highly interesting proposition for deployment in conservation areas and nature reserves. It is equally ideal for works transport at large companies or for deployment at airports and seaports.
Showcasing state-of-the-art drive technology: transparent model of the Mercedes-Benz Vito E-CELL at the Geneva Motor Show
For the first time ever, the transparent model of the Mercedes-Benz Vito E-CELL provides a vivid demonstration of how electric mobility works. Mercedes-Benz is offering clear insights in Geneva into the Vito E-CELL's mode of functioning: from chargers through voltage transformers, high-voltage control units and the battery to the electric motor. The model employs high-performance LEDs to visualise the flow of current from the battery via the control electronics to the drive shafts.
The technical concept behind the Vito E-CELL crewbus
The electric motor (60 kW; max. torque 280 Nm), power electronics, transformer and AC/DC charger are accommodated under the bonnet. The generated power is transmitted to the front wheels. The powerful and robust lithium-ion traction batteries are accommodated under the passenger compartment floor. The nominal voltage stands at 360 V, with a capacity of 36 kWh. The speed is electronically limited to 89 km/h in the interests of a range of 130 km (New European Driving Cycle, NEDC). The Vito E-CELL crewbus is well able to hold its own in city traffic with the available battery power. Acceleration from 0 to 50/80 km/h in 6.5/11 seconds ensures that it is a swift mover at all times.
The Vito E-CELL's batteries are charged from the 380/400 V grid in a maximum of five hours. Charging from the 230 V grid is subsequently possible as necessary. The battery additionally stores recuperated power while the vehicle is in motion.
The Vito E-CELL does not compromise on safety: ESP and driver's airbag come as standard and a safety belt is integrated in each seat. The batteries are protected by a crash element. In the event of airbag activation, the high-voltage technology will be shut down automatically. The Vito E-CELL has demonstrated its high safety standard in an impressive manner in crash tests.
Clocking up 650,000 km, a weath of positive experience and numerous awards
After its first year in service with customers, the Vito E-CELL has proven its credentials as an ideal vehicle for urban traffic. In all, 230 Vito E-CELL vans are now on the road as part of the promotion schemes currently in operation in Germany. Together, they have so far successfully covered around 650,000 km/h.
The Mercedes-Benz Vito E-CELL has won a host of awards from independent juries. Among its titles is "Green Commercial of the Year". In 2011 the Vito E-CELL won the "Alternative Drives" innovation award in the "KEP-Transporter des Jahres" competition for courier, express and parcel delivery vans, the "Umwelttechnikpreis Baden-Württemberg" for environmental engineering and technology and the Design Award at the Michelin "Challenge Bibendum", one of the largest forums worldwide on sustainable mobility.
Credits: Daimler AG
Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.
