Mercedes-Benz Celebrates 130 Years with World’s Oldest Van

The world’s oldest delivery van, manufactured by Mercedes-Benz over a century ago, is still operational, marking a significant milestone in automotive history. Originally built in 1896 by the company then known as Benz & Cie, this vehicle was among the first of its kind, designed not just for transporting people but also goods. It was commissioned by the renowned Bon Marché stores in Paris for 4,500 marks, equivalent to approximately €2,300 today.

A Look Back at Early Innovations

The initial designs by Benz & Cie included two distinct types of vans that reflected the technological advancements of the era. The first model, known as the “closed body car,” borrowed its design from the 1893 Benz Victoria, a two-seater vehicle with a folding roof. The second model was a mixed van inspired by the Benz Velocipede, characterized by its lightweight and roofless design.

One of the notable features of this mixed version was its modularity. The vehicle’s body could be disassembled in minutes, allowing it to transition from a cargo van to a passenger car with two seats, a concept that resonates with modern-day versatile vans. These early models were powered by rear-mounted, four-stroke single-cylinder engines, offering outputs between 2.75 and 6 horsepower and speeds of up to 20 km/h. They had a cargo capacity of approximately 300 kilograms, surpassing the load-bearing capabilities of horses at that time.

The Oldest Van Still in Operation

Among the few surviving examples is the Benz Ideal Van, constructed in 1899 under license from Hewetson’s Ltd. in the United Kingdom. This vintage vehicle retains a 3-horsepower engine, capable of transporting up to 100 kilograms of cargo in addition to the driver. Although it is three years newer than the original delivery van, it embodies the historic charm that fans of automotive history appreciate.

This remarkable piece of engineering is now part of the Mercedes-Benz Classic collection, having undergone complete restoration for the celebration of the 130th anniversary of the company’s van division. Mercedes-Benz plans to showcase this iconic van at various historical events, alongside its contemporary models, including the widely popular Sprinter, which accounts for 77% of van sales among European customers, according to the magazine Car and Driver.

Celebrating a Legacy of Innovation

Reaching a milestone of 130 years is a rare achievement for any company, marking a journey from a simple idea in 1896 to a global leader in the transportation industry today. The initial commission from Bon Marché laid the groundwork for what would evolve into a comprehensive fleet of vehicles for transporting goods across the world.

The evolution from Benz & Cie to the modern-day Mercedes-Benz reflects a legacy of ongoing innovation. From the Benz Victoria to the Benz Ideal Van, these early models set the foundation for a brand synonymous with quality and reliability. Today, Mercedes-Benz not only celebrates its past but also looks forward to continuing its legacy of excellence in transportation.

According to Dirk Weyhenmeyer, a historian with Mercedes-Benz in Germany, these 130 years are not just a commemoration of achievements but also a call to action for future advancements. The company intends to lead in the development of vehicle technology, ensuring that it continues to shape the way goods and people are moved around the world.