
Recreational vehicle from Mercedes
40 years have passed since the first one Mercedes Marco Polo was presented: in 1984 yearthe famous Venetian explorer gave his name to a recreational vehicle based on the Mercedes-Benz T1 (TN), also known as the “Bremer Transporter”, and manufactured in Germany at the Bremen plant near Hamburg.
The first Marco Polo was 2.97 meters high and featured a chunky front end, Bahamian beige and a vintage interior that combined tones of beige and brown. There was a roof bed, a seat that converts to a sleeper in the back, swivel front seats, a kitchenette with a sink, stove and fridge, not to mention numerous cupboards and drawers.
in 1996 year, the second generation Marco Polo was born, based on the Mercedes Vito: it provides greater versatility in parking lots, the height is reduced to less than two meters, and the introduction of a lifting roof. Inside, the rear bench/berth can be modular thanks to a rail system, the cupboards have roller shutters and the table can be hidden in the sliding doors.
Mercedes Marco Polo: to the future
in 2003 yearthe third creation of the Marco Polo was based on the Viano: even more functional, it included an electric lifting roof, a roof bed with point spring springs certified by AGR, seats with electric folding backrests, not forgetting airbags. in the seat linings for better lateral support.
in 2015 year, V-Class gave birth to the fourth generation Marco Polo, even more aesthetic and comfortable. On board, yacht-style flooring, high-quality materials and LED interior lighting create an even warmer atmosphere. There are numerous technologies, including the latest MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) multimedia system and the advanced MBAC (Mercedes-Benz Advanced Control) control unit.
For Mercedes T-Class customers looking to go on a weekend adventure, Mercedes offers Marco Polo module, which attaches to the trunk and carries some travel equipment: a bed for two, a kitchen set with a sink and a gas stove, a refrigerator or even an auxiliary battery. On the windows there are blackout elements and ventilation grills with mosquito nets, as well as pockets for things.
From 2026, Mercedes will offer a new generation of Marco Polo, thanks to VAN.EA platform (Van Electric Architecture), modular and scalable to offer 100% electric motorhomes and equipped vans.
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Source: Auto Plus

Robert is an experienced journalist who has been covering the automobile industry for over a decade. He has a deep understanding of the latest technologies and trends in the industry and is known for his thorough and in-depth reporting.