The Mercedes Sustainer concept: now with a cargo bike

On the occasion of presenting the (e)Vito and (e)Sprinter models in 2024, Mercedes-Benz Vans has once again launched its Sustainer concept. And just like the two production models, this mobile laboratory of sustainability software will also receive an update that, among other things, focuses on the ‘last mile’.

The Mercedes Sustainer is not new. Mercedes said a concept model based on the electric eSprinter already in 2021 to demonstrate and test a number of new technologies in the field of sustainability. But concept cars also cannot avoid ‘facelifts’ when there is a trend towards sustainability, so the Manager will be treated to a few modifications for 2024. This includes a new filter that should keep more particles out of the cabin and an air conditioning pump placed closer to the body which cools and heats the interior more efficiently, an important use of energy in electric vehicles. But Mercedes-Benz Vans also combines the Sustainer with a cargo bike.

Van as a little hub

No matter how good the Sustaineer is as a concept, it is and remains the biggest delivery vehicle in the city. And so Mercedes-Benz Vans partnered with German cargo bike manufacturer Onomotion to create the ultimate delivery van that supports Sustainer.

A specially made container with a capacity of 2 m³ and a loading capacity of 200 kg is used, which can be transported by both vehicles. The Sustainer takes the containers to a central point on the edge of the city and serves as a hub for the cargo bikes that come to pick up the containers. The lifting system must make the transfer of the container easy, fast and safe.

Curious what technology in Sustaineer will finally make it to the next generation of Athlete. And if Mercedes ventures into the world of cargo bikes…