Mercedes-Benz VLE has been revealed as an new all-electric people mover for global markets. The model is the first vehicle built on the brand's newly developed modular Van Architecture.
- 4,078 litres of cargo space
- 115kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) battery pack
- range of over 700 kilometres
- 300kW DC fast charger can add up to 355 km range in just 15 minutes
The VLE can seat up to eight passengers and is designed with flexibility in mind. When the second and third rows of seats are removed, the van can offer up to 4,078 litres of cargo space, allowing it to switch easily between passenger transport and hauling luggage or equipment. Mercedes also claims that the electric van can deliver a driving range of more than 700 kilometres on the WLTP test cycle.
Buyers will be able to customise the VLE with several trim levels and option packages. The van will be available in four trims - Standard, AMG Line, AMG Line Plus and Exclusive. In addition, four equipment packages (Advanced, Advanced Plus, Premium and Premium Plus) will be offered. Optional extras include the Night Package, different trim inserts and alloy wheels ranging from 19-inch to 22-inch sizes.
Although the company has not confirmed launch details for India, the VLE is expected to arrive in the country around 2027 after its global rollout. Mercedes plans to offer the van in multiple variants with different power outputs and battery options.
The first model expected to go on sale is the VLE 300 electric, followed by the more powerful VLE 400 4MATIC electric. Both versions will use a 115kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) battery pack. The VLE 300 produces 276 PS and is claimed to offer a range of over 700 kilometres. Meanwhile, the VLE 400 4MATIC delivers more than 415 PS and can accelerate from 0 to 100kmph in about 6.5 seconds. Mercedes also plans to introduce additional variants with an 80kWh lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery at a later stage.
The electric van features an 800-volt electrical architecture that enables fast charging. Using a 300kW DC fast charger, the VLE can add up to 355 kilometres of range in just 15 minutes. It also supports 400-volt charging through an optional converter and offers bidirectional charging capability. Charging-station reservations can be managed through the brand's MB.CHARGE Public system.
For ride comfort, the VLE is equipped with AIRMATIC air suspension that can raise or lower the vehicle by up to 40mm. The van also gets rear-wheel steering with up to seven degrees of movement, helping it achieve a turning circle of 10.9 metres.
Inside the cabin, the VLE features the MBUX Superscreen setup, which includes a 10.25-inch digital driver display, a 14-inch central touchscreen and a 14-inch passenger display. A standout feature is a large 31.3-inch 8K entertainment screen that folds down from the roof liner.
Buyers can choose from several rear-seat configurations, including premium seats with massage and calf support. The seats can slide, fold or be removed using the Roll & Go system, making it easy to switch between passenger and cargo layouts. Seat adjustments can also be controlled remotely through the infotainment system or the Mercedes-Benz mobile app.
In terms of styling, the VLE draws inspiration from the Vision V Concept shown in 2025. The design includes a large front grille, which may feature an illuminated surround depending on the trim. Other highlights include electric sliding doors, slim headlamps connected by a light bar, and a full-width inverted U-shaped rear light strip. The van also gets a rear glass panel that can be opened separately from the tailgate. Buyers can choose between a bonnet-mounted three-pointed star or a large Mercedes badge placed at the centre of the grille.