#HTE

A Sharp Design Departure for Mercedes: The Concept EQT

Mercedes has unveiled a highly unusual (for them) concept vehicle, one whose design DNA deviates rather sharply from the brand’s.

Their EQT electric van is aimed not at sober business executives, but is meant to “appeal to families and all those private customers, whatever their age, who enjoy leisure activities and need a lot of space and maximum variability without forgoing comfort and style.”

The press photos make clear they’re aiming for “fun:”

The release says “The Concept EQT is immediately recognisable as a member of the Mercedes-EQ family.” But looking at Mercedes’ recent lineup…

…I have to disagree:

There’s something Kia-esque about it, no? And the interior is particularly surprising, with an almost gaudy quality:

Then there’s what’s in the trunk:

“The concept vehicle illustrates this spaciousness and high level of variability for families and outdoor fans with a lot of luggage or sports equipment with a rather surprising feature – an electric longboard integrated into the load compartment. It is stored in a double-floor compartment beneath a plexiglass lid fitted in an aluminium frame and flush with the load compartment floor. The electric longboard is also made of aluminium and features a star pattern, giving it a particularly stylish look. ”

And I’m not sure which feature of the car this is, but it was inspired by a scooped-out avocado, according to the sketch:

The EQT is meant to herald the arrival of Mercedes’ new forthcoming line, the T-Class, which is scheduled to launch next year.