Mercedes-Benz has revealed the VLE, an all-electric multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) developed on the brand’s new Van Architecture platform. This combines the interior space and flexibility of the brand’s passenger vans with the electric powertrains found in the brand’s passenger cars.
The VLE features a spacious interior to seat up to eight passengers. It is powered by a technology package developed on the Mercedes-Benz MB.OS operating system. The MPV features an estimated WLTP driving range of over 700 kilometres. Additionally, it features fast charging technology on a 800-volt charging network to support long-distance driving.
What Is the Mercedes-Benz VLE and How Does It Fit Into the Brand’s Electric Strategy?
The Mercedes-Benz VLE is a newly revealed electric MPV developed on the brand’s modular Van Architecture platform. This platform is designed to accommodate a variety of body styles, drivetrains, and battery capacities on upcoming models.
VLE design includes a streamlined look with a drag coefficient of 0.25. It features a revised grille with optional illumination, as well as DIGITAL LIGHT headlights, and arc-shaped taillights with a light strip.
This platform will be used for several upcoming electric van models as part of a larger electrification strategy.
What Interior Space and Seating Options Are Available?
VLE offers flexible seating options for five to eight passengers in three rows of seats. The seating options available are Comfort Seat, Premium Comfort Seat, and Grand Comfort Seat.
“Roll & Go” seating system allows for sliding along floor rails, locking in different positions, or completely removing seats for more cargo space.
Wheels are integrated for easy movement of removed seats.
It provides a maximum cargo capacity of up to 795 litres when all seats are in place and up to 4,078 litres when removed.
How Does the Electric Powertrain and Charging System Work?
VLE will be launched in two versions: VLE 300 electric with a 272 hp power output
VLE 400 4MATIC electric – over 402 hp, all-wheel drive
The two variants are powered by a 115 kWh lithium-ion battery pack of type NMC and offer an estimated range of over 700 km based on WLTP data.
The 800-volt architecture is designed for high-speed charging of the battery. In good conditions, up to 355 km of range can be obtained in just 15 minutes.
What Driving Comfort and Assistance Systems Are Available?
The VLE offers several comfort-enhancing systems that also improve its manoeuvrability.
AIRMATIC air suspension automatically adapts its ride height to various driving situations and allows raising or lowering the vehicle by up to 40 mm.
Price, Availability, and Launch Details
Mercedes-Benz announced the VLE as part of its next generation of electric vans, which are built on the Van Architecture. The vehicles are the VLE 300 electric and the VLE 400 4MATIC electric, both of which are powered by a 115 kWh battery, which supports high-power fast charging.
There are no details on the price of the VLE or its availability. There are indications that more versions with varying battery capacity are planned.
VLE features various design lines, optional AMG design elements, wheel sizes from 19 to 22 inches, as well as interior packages. Mercedes-Benz is expected to disclose more details on the production of the VLE closer to the launch date.
