Electric, fully autonomous and highly flexible – Mercedes has unveiled its shapeshifting Urbanetic concept ahead of next week’s 2018 commercial vehicles show in Hanover.

Giving a glimpse at the German maker’s vision for the future of vans, the concept vehicle is as big as a Mercedes Sprinter van and can change from being a delivery truck to a passenger vehicle in a matter of minutes.

Divided into a lower powertrain that houses the electronics, autopilot sensors and battery, and an interchangable upper section, a special rail system installed in the vehicle allows it to transform quickly and easily.

With its shapeshifting abilities, the Urbanetic is being touted as a way to reduce congestion in cities and to wipe out unnecessary empty vehicle journeys.

The autonomous function of the vehicle also frees up the space normally reserved for a driver, with the five metre long cargo version of the Urbanetic offering up to 10 cubic metres in space.

The transport option also benefits from the added space, housing eight seats and four standing places for passengers.

As oddly futuristic as the Urbanetic looks, Mercedes assures us that this concept will be made into a reality sooner rather than later, with the first fleet tests on programmed routes and private areas expected to begin soon.

dpa.news