The event provided the opportunity for presentations on a number of these initiatives, under the broad banner of AdVANce.
They include initiatives in digitisation, automation and robotics, as well as integrated parcel delivery systems using drones and sidewalk robots.
The concept van has an all electric powertrain, and envisages a range of up to 270km.
Speakers at the event noted a number of ‘megatrends’ which will require new ways of managing the logistics business — increased urbanisation, the rapid growth of e-commerce, and the need for greater sustainability in transport are among these.
Volker Mornhinweg, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans, told journalists at the ‘Van Innovation Campus’ that the company is focusing its attention ‘beyond the vehicle’ and on to the entire value chain and business environment of its customers.
Mercedes-Benz’s vans division is developing from being a mere vehicle manufacturer into a provider of system solutions in the transportation of goods and services sector.
