Mercedes-Benz on Tuesday unveiled the all-electric VLE, which is the production version of the Vision V concept. Essentially a van equivalent of the E-Class sedan, the VLE will slot below the more opulent and range-topping VLS, likely to debut later this year. Both standard and long-wheelbase models will be on offer, and in addition to the standard VLE, buyers would be able to pick between AMG Line, AMG Line Plus and Exclusive versions.
- VLE EV is the first model based on the brand’s new VAN.EA base
- Rear seats can be fully removed to open up to 4,078 litres of luggage space
- VAN.CA-based combustion-run models to arrive later
Mercedes VLE range and battery options
The VLE is the first model based on Mercedes’ new VAN.EA platform, which will underpin the brand’s future electric MPVs, including the VLS. The first variant will be the VLE 300, producing 276hp and offering a claimed range of over 700km (WLTP). It uses a large 115kWh NMC battery and runs on an 800V electrical architecture, allowing a 320km range top-up in just 15 minutes. Next is the more powerful VLE 400, featuring all-wheel drive, 415hp and a 0-100kph time of 6.5 seconds.
Models with smaller 80kWh lithium-iron-phosphate batteries are expected to arrive later, and combustion-run versions based on the VAN.CA platform will also join the lineup in the future. The van also features air suspension and rear-axle steering with up to seven degrees of movement, helping achieve a tight turning circle of 10.9 metres, which Mercedes says is comparable to the CLA sedan.
Mercedes VLE exterior highlights
On the outside, the Mercedes-Benz VLE adopts a sleek, aerodynamic shape, with a slippery drag coefficient of 0.25Cd (for reference, the Porsche Macan Turbo Electric has an identical figure). The van has a long front overhang, a smooth roofline and a rounded rear, giving it a streamlined look. “The concept and the production model will be remarkably similar,” Mercedes Benz CEO Ola Kallenius had said at the global reveal of the Vision V concept last year.
Up front, the massive grille can be equipped with an illuminated frame depending on the variant. A light strip connects the headlights, and the DRLs use star-shaped elements. Buyers will also get to choose between a traditional standing three-pointed star on the bonnet or a centrally mounted emblem on the grille. It also features electric sliding doors on both sides, and these doors include power windows as well.
At the rear, the VLE gets arc-shaped tail-lamps that are integrated into the spoiler. A full-width light strip runs across the tailgate, forming an inverted U shape and housing all the lighting functions. The VLE retains some practical features seen on the Mercedes-Benz V-Class, including a separately opening rear glass section.
Mercedes VLE interior and features
Inside, the VLE can seat between five and eight occupants, depending on configuration. The seats can be removed entirely to create up to 4,078 litres of luggage carrying capacity. Interestingly, the seats are fitted with rollers, allowing them to be wheeled around rather than carried when removed. Buyers will also be able to opt for electronically adjustable rear seats that can be repositioned through preset configurations.
“It is made for situations where you would spend a lot of time in your car and you want to spend that time well, in ways that are productive and fun. It is the redefinition of first-class travel on the road,” Kallenius stated earlier.
A large 31.3-inch retractable display folds away into the roof liner when not in use, while the dashboard features the Superscreen setup combining the driver’s display, central touchscreen and passenger screen across the width of the cabin.
The VLE also supports over-the-air updates and comes with a 750-watt, 22-speaker Dolby Atmos sound system, along with a panoramic glass roof. The centre console includes a compartment that can keep beverages warm or cold and even offers UV disinfection, while the electric seats can be adjusted via the touchscreen or a smartphone app. For safety and driver assistance, the VLE uses 10 cameras, five radar and 12 ultrasonic sensors.
