New Mercedes-Benz MPVs face the ultimate winter test in the arctic circle

Mercedes-Benz is pushing its next-generation multipurpose vehicles (MPVs) to the limit, conducting rigorous winter testing in Sweden’s Arctic Circle. With temperatures plummeting well below freezing and roads covered in ice and snow, the extreme conditions provide a crucial testing ground for the automaker’s future lineup.

The testing comes ahead of a major shift in Mercedes-Benz’s van strategy. Starting in 2026, the company will launch its first models under the Van Electric Architecture (VAN.EA), an all-electric platform. This will be followed by Van Combustion Architecture (VAN.CA), which will underpin new internal combustion engine (ICE) vans. Both platforms will serve different market segments, from premium family vehicles to commercial transporters.

Testing near the Arctic Circle is a critical step in vehicle development. The icy conditions simulate some of the most challenging driving scenarios, with grip levels up to 90% lower than dry asphalt. Engineers use these conditions to fine-tune:

• Vehicle stability and traction control – Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) and braking performance are evaluated on slippery surfaces.

• Suspension and steering systems – Rear-axle steering improves maneuverability, while 4MATIC all-wheel drive enhances traction.

• Interior heating and thermal management – Extreme cold testing ensures that the cabin remains comfortable and that the battery system (in EV models) performs efficiently.

• Charging capabilities in low temperatures – The new 800-volt DC charging system and 22-kW AC charger are tested in sub-zero conditions to assess reliability.

These tests are part of a broader development process that includes trials in various climate zones and road conditions worldwide.

Mercedes-Benz is also using digital tools to speed up vehicle development. According to Dr. Andreas Zygan, Head of Development at Mercedes-Benz Vans, the company is leveraging real-time data analysis to optimise testing and reduce development time.

“Thanks to our Mission Control Center, we were able to optimise the data from the trips in real time. This has allowed us to significantly shorten our test time frame and make significant progress in terms of product maturity in a very efficient way.”

With weeks of testing still to go, Mercedes-Benz reports that the MPVs are holding up well in the Arctic conditions. The results so far indicate that both the electric and combustion-engine models are performing as expected, handling extreme cold without major issues.

As the company prepares for the rollout of its new van architecture, these tests mark a crucial step in ensuring that its vehicles are ready for real-world challenges—whether on icy roads in Scandinavia or in everyday urban environments.