FREIGHTER BOI
£tbc / mercedes-benz.co.uk
Looks like a happy chappy.
This smiley little fella is a result of designers at Mercedes-benz getting a bit creative. Based on the existing V-class van, the Concept EQT is a look at what an electrified small van from the German brand might look like in the not-so-distant future; but it’s actually more likely to form a design base for the upcoming petrol and diesel T-class.
Are those little stars all over the front grille?
Yep, the grille itself is made up of 3D-effect back-illuminated stars, while the narrow LED headlights save that big grin from looking downright goofy by adding a bit of menace that leads into some neatly puffed-up wheel-arches.
This is a concept – so, come on, where’s the wacky feature?
In the boot! Open up that sucker and you’ll be greeted by – wait
for it – an electric longboard. It’s stored in an aluminium-framed box beneath a plexiglass lid.
The longboard is also made of aluminium and features a star pattern, just in case you needed more of an excuse to be pushed into a canal as you ride to work.
Serious question – is it practical? The car, not the longboard.
Yeah, massively, seeing as there’s room for up to seven people, who can access their sumptuous leathery pews via large sliding doors on both sides. Three child seats can be fitted in the second row, and to entertain the kiddies there’s a huge panoramic roof.
Is this making vans… cool?
Maybe! So many families fall for the SUV marketing guff, but the humble MPV is brilliant for ferrying kids, prams, dogs and bikes. This concept could be just what the people-carrier market needs.