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Mercedes-Benz Celebrates World Premiere of the All-Electric VLE
Picture: (c) Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz has officially unveiled the VLE, a new generation of all-electric vans designed to span the gap between flexible family transport and ultra-exclusive executive shuttles. As the first model built on the company’s newly developed, modular van architecture, Mercedes-Benz claims the VLE combines the driving dynamics and ride comfort of a luxury sedan with the versatility and interior volume of a premium passenger van.
Mercedes-Benz has officially unveiled the VLE, a new generation of all-electric vans designed to span the gap between flexible family transport and ultra-exclusive executive shuttles. As the first model built on the company’s newly developed, modular van architecture, Mercedes-Benz claims the VLE combines the driving dynamics and ride comfort of a luxury sedan with the versatility and interior volume of a premium passenger van.
The VLE can accommodate up to eight passengers across three full-sized rows. Cargo capacity is impressive: 28 cubic feet (795 liters) with all seats in place, expanding to a massive 144 cubic feet (4,078 liters) with the interior fully removed. Passengers can choose from three newly developed seating tiers: a manual Comfort seat, an electric Premium Comfort seat, and the flagship Grand Comfort seat, which features specialized pillows, lumbar support, massage functions, calf rests, and integrated wireless charging.
At launch, the VLE 300 will feature 272 hp (203 kW), followed by the VLE 400 4MATIC, which boasts over 400 hp (300 kW) and a 0–60 mph sprint of just 6.5 seconds. Both launch models utilize a new NMC battery with 115 kWh of usable capacity. Preliminary manufacturer data suggests a range of over 435 miles (700 km).
Thanks to 800-volt architecture and DC fast charging at up to 300 kW, the VLE can add up to 220 miles of range in just 15 minutes. In a recent real-world test from Stuttgart to Rome (approx. 680 miles), the VLE reportedly required only two 15-minute charging stops. Next year, Mercedes-Benz will introduce two additional variants equipped with 80 kWh LFP batteries.
The chassis is equally advanced, featuring AIRMATIC air suspension with 1.5 inches (40 mm) of level adjustment and 7-degree rear-axle steering. This reduces the turning circle to just 35.7 feet—comparable to the compact CLA sedan. Additionally, the VLE offers a towing capacity of up to 5,500 lbs (2.5 tons).
The cabin is dominated by the optional MBUX Superscreen, which spans the entire dashboard. This setup includes a 10.25-inch instrument cluster, a 14-inch central display, and a matching 14-inch passenger display, all housed behind a single glass surface. An optional Head-Up Display projects a virtual 23.1-inch image appearing roughly 13 feet in front of the vehicle.
For rear passengers, the highlight is a retractable 31.3-inch (79 cm) 8K Panoramic Screen with split-screen capability and an integrated 8MP camera for video conferencing. Audio is handled by an optional Burmester 3D Surround Sound system featuring 22 speakers and Dolby Atmos.
The entire ecosystem runs on MB.OS, the company’s proprietary operating system. It features generative AI powered by ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing, and Google Gemini. Navigation is handled via Google Maps with an integrated Automotive AI Agent. Over-the-air (OTA) updates keep the driver assistance and infotainment systems current, while the app portfolio already includes over 40 applications, such as Disney+ and cloud gaming through Boosteroid.
