Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the all-electric VLE, a grand limousine seating up to eight passengers and the first model built on the automaker’s new Van Architecture. The VLE 300 electric offers a provisional WLTP range of more than 700 kilometers, while the higher-output VLE 400 4MATIC electric delivers 305 kW and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds.
Both variants share a 115 kWh usable NMC battery with 800-volt technology, supporting DC fast charging at over 300 kW and capable of replenishing up to 355 kilometers of range in 15 minutes. LFP battery variants with 80 kWh usable capacity are planned to follow next year. A drag coefficient of 0.25 and AIRMATIC air suspension with 40 mm of level control are standard, while seven-degree rear-axle steering reduces the turning circle to 10.9 meters.
The interior accommodates five to eight passengers across three seating rows with manually or electrically adjustable seats. A retractable 79-centimetre panoramic screen with 8K resolution is available as part of the optional MBUX Rear Space Experience, alongside a three-display MBUX Superscreen spanning the full cockpit width. MB.OS integrates AI assistance combining ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing and Google Gemini, with over-the-air update capability. Towing capacity is rated at up to 2.5 tonnes.
“The VLE combines MPV-like versatility with limousine-like driving comfort and an immersive spatial experience,” Thomas Klein, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans, said. “The electric VLE will delight customers worldwide because it’s as diverse as they are.”
