Mercedes-Benz has introduced two Marco Polo concepts to transform the EQT electric van into a camper. One of them is a complete conversion, and the other is a simple, removable module for those who want to spend a little time away from home.
The silver van in the gallery has had its interior modified to become a camper. This rig uses the upcoming long-wheelbase EQT as a starting point and adds a pop-up roof panel. Extending this piece, there is room for passengers to stand up in the vehicle. A sleeping area measuring 77.56 inches (1.97 m) by 38.2 inches (0.97 m) is upstairs, and zip-out windows offer a view of nature.
47 Pictures
The pop-up roof also has solar panels. There is a removable battery in the drawer that the occupants can use instead of pulling out the motoring pack, which would reduce the van’s range.
On the bottom, there is a fold-out mattress that is 78.74 inches (2 meters) by 45.28 inches (1.15 meters). A bench makes for a place to sit on the side even when the bed is in place. For privacy, the windows darken when the button is pressed.
The kitchen includes a sink, induction cooktop, and a refrigerator box. A removable, gas camping stove is in the drawer if you want to cook outside. The fold-out table can be electrically adjusted in height.
The production version of this van is coming in the second half of 2023.
The blue EQT in these images is the short-wheelbase model and previews the Marco Polo module. It has two parts. A sleeping area comes standard, and a kitchen unit is an additional option. These pieces are attached to tie-down eyelets in the luggage compartment and are removable.
The bed unit has a fold-out mattress that measures 78.74 inches (2 meters) by 45.28 inches (1.15 meters). When stowed, the rear seats are fully usable. The package comes with blackout window coverings so occupants can sleep in privacy.
The kitchen unit includes a 3.17-gallon (12-liter) water tank, 0.53-cubic-foot (15-liter) refrigerator, and a gas camping stove. There are also two chairs and a table that can be mounted inside or outside the van.
According to the company, Mercedes will make the Marco Polo module available “in the near future”.
The EQT’s powertrain consists of an electric motor that makes 121 horsepower (90 kW) and 181 pound-feet (245 Newton meters) of torque. The van comes with a 45 kWh battery pack. The model will launch soon in Europe at a starting price of around 49,000 euros ($51,595 at current exchange rates).