Mercedes scraps eCitan and EQT models produced with Renault - media outlet
According to German media reports, Mercedes-Benz has informed its dealers that it will cease production of small commercial vehicles and withdraw the electric EQT and eCitan models from the market. Production is to cease without replacement in the second quarter of 2026.
Here's What We Know
Both the eCitan and EQT models are the result of a co-operation between Mercedes-Benz and Renault. The eCitan electric van and the high-body passenger version of the EQT are manufactured at Renault's plant in Mobège, France, and use the same powertrain as the Kangoo E-Tech Electric: a 90 kW electric motor and a 44.5 kWh battery.
This set provides a modest range of up to 278 kilometres on the WLTP cycle. At the same time, the more expensive Mercedes models do not offer anything more compared to the sister models of Renault or Nissan Townstar, using the same technological base.
However, Mercedes' expectations have also not been met by the internal combustion engine models, the Citan and T-Class. In 2024, 28,500 small vans were sold, about 10 per cent less than in 2023. These models thus accounted for less than 10 per cent of Mercedes' total van sales.
The co-operation between Renault, Nissan and Mercedes-Benz began back in 2009 under CEOs Dieter Zetsche and Carlos Ghosn. It covered light commercial vehicles, the partnership between Smart and Renault, and the joint development of various engines. Most of the projects have now been completed, and the last area of joint work - in the light commercial vehicle segment - will be finalised in mid-2026.
"We will continue to fulfil our obligations as a manufacturer: spare parts for the Citan, eCitan, T-Class and EQT models will be available for 10 years and mobility-related components for up to 15 years after the end of production," Mercedes said in a notice to dealers.
Sources: auto-motor-und-sport, handelsblatt, automobilwoche
