Electric Mercedes-Benz Concept EQT revealed

The Mercedes-Benz Concept EQT has been unveiled overnight, previewing the production T-Class van and people-mover range that's set to be launched in 2022.

Said to be the latest member of the German car-maker's electric EQ sub-brand, the Mercedes-Benz Concept EQT is based on the next-generation Mercedes-Benz Citan small delivery van that will include a battery-powered variant as well as traditional petrol and diesel powertrains.

The Mercedes-Benz T-Class will battle it out in the light commercial vehicle segment with the Volkswagen Caddy, Citroen Berlingo and the Renault Kangoo.

The latter was developed alongside the new Mercedes-Benz compact van, and the battery-powered EQT is set to share a powertrain with the third-gen Renault Kangoo E-Tech Electric.

As earlier teasers have revealed, the Concept EQT gets styling inspired by the flagship Mercedes-Benz EQS limo, with a prominent black panel grille that features a 3D star effect. The slim LED headlights are also interlinked by a full-width light bar.

Huge 21-inch alloy wheels, an expansive panoramic roof and a luxurious-looking cabin complete with leather seats show how Mercedes plans to move the zero-emissions van-based people-mover upmarket.

When it's launched, two versions will be offered: a standard-wheelbase T-Class with five seats or an extended-wheelbase model with a seven-seat layout.

Measuring in at 4945mm long, 1863mm wide and 1826mm high, the Concept EQT is 92mm longer, 8mm wider and 8mm taller than its closest rival, the Volkswagen Caddy Maxi.

As standard, all versions get twin sliding rear doors.

Conveniently for families, the third row can be removed to maximise space while the second row accommodates up to three child seats. The two front seats also get a pair of rear integrated tables.

It's rumoured the white Nappa leather will make way for more durable fabric materials, but the dash and touch-screen displays will all be retained for the production version.

New driver assist tech that will be introduced with the T-Class include the car-maker's latest autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system, lane keep assist, crosswind assist, trailer stability control and adaptive cruise that can also take over in heavy traffic.

There's no word on petrol and diesel powertrains but they're expected to mirror the Renault Kangoo range and consist of a small 1.2-litre turbo and a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel.

Both will be offered either with a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch auto.

The flagship EQT is set for a 45kWh battery and a front axle-mounted single 75kW electric motor, and should be capable of covering up to 265km between top-ups.