Mercedes-Benz VLE Electric Van Revealed With 700 Km WLTP Range

Mercedes-Benz unveils VLE electric luxury van with over 700km range

Mercedes-Benz has revealed the all-electric Mercedes-Benz VLE van, a new luxury people mover derived from the Vision V concept. The VLE will sit below the upcoming VLS in the brand’s electric van lineup and represents the first production model built on Mercedes-Benz’s new VAN.EA architecture. The platform is intended to underpin the company’s next generation of electric MPVs.

The VLE will be offered in standard and long-wheelbase versions, with multiple trim options including AMG Line, AMG Line Plus and Exclusive variants. The vehicle can be configured with five to eight seats, with flexible seating layouts allowing the rear seats to be removed entirely to create up to 4078 litres of luggage space.

In terms of powertrain, the initial variant called the VLE 300 will produce 276 HP and use a 115kWh nickel manganese cobalt battery pack. Mercedes claims a WLTP driving range of more than 700 km. The van uses an 800V electrical architecture, enabling fast charging that can add around 320 km of range in approximately 15 minutes. A more powerful VLE 400 version will also be available, featuring all-wheel drive with 415 HP and a claimed 0-100 km/hr acceleration time of 6.5 seconds. Mercedes plans to introduce variants with a smaller 80kWh lithium iron phosphate battery at a later stage, while combustion-engine models based on the VAN.CA platform are also expected in the future.

The exterior design of the VLE focuses on aerodynamic efficiency, achieving a drag coefficient of 0.25Cd. Styling highlights include a wide front grille with optional illumination, star-shaped daytime running lights and a connected light strip between the headlights. The van also features electric sliding doors, wheel options ranging from 19 to 22 inches and a full-width rear light signature.

Inside, the VLE emphasises comfort and digital features. A large 31.3-inch retractable 8K display is integrated into the roof for rear passengers, while the front dashboard features Mercedes-Benz’s Superscreen layout with multiple displays. Other equipment includes a 22-speaker Dolby Atmos audio system, a panoramic glass roof and adjustable seating with massage and lumbar support in higher variants. The van is also equipped with multiple driver assistance systems supported by cameras, radar and ultrasonic sensors. Mercedes-Benz has not yet confirmed if the VLE will be launched in India, though the brand has been expanding its luxury MPV presence with models such as the V-Class.

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