2022 Mercedes-Benz T-Class small people-mover teased
The new mini bus will be based on Renault's small van platform, with a fully-electric powertrain confirmed.
A teaser image for the all-new Mercedes-Benz T-Class has been revealed overnight, accompanying an announcement outlining the new model range.
Due for release in 2022, the T-Class will be a people-mover based on Renault's next-generation Kangoo van platform (shown below in concept form), and will offer the option of a fully-electric powertrain.
The Mercedes-Benz Citan – based on the current Renault Kangoo – has been available to European markets since 2012.
It's expected the Citan will continue as the company's small commercial van offering, while the better-appointed T-Class will be aimed towards the small people-mover segment – much like the Mercedes-Benz V-Class is the people-mover variant of the Vito commercial van.
It's expected the T-Class will compete directly with the Volkswagen Caddy, which is offered as a commercial van or as a more comfortable seven-seater people-mover. A new Volkswagen Caddy is due in 2021.
A spokesperson for Mercedes-Benz Vans told CarAdvice the T-Class was currently being assessed for the Australian market.
Above: The current Mercedes-Benz Citan van sold in European markets.
In 2017, Managing Director of Mercedes-Benz Vans Australia said, “We are certainly not taking our eye off the opportunity for the next-generation Citan, and what that can present for us".
The T-Class isn't the German car manufacturer's first foray into the small people-mover segment. Between 2002 and 2005, Mercedes-Benz offered the Vaneo, based on the first-generation A-Class hatchback.