Mercedes-Benz faces a new stage in the electric minivan segment With the imminent launch, planned for 2026, of the VLE and VLS models, the German brand, under the name "Grand Limousines," seeks to completely renew the experience of family and luxury vehicles. In this way, it will promote electrification and clearly differentiate the ranges aimed at private and professional users from a model range that has been closely associated with them throughout its long history.
The introduction of modular and scalable VAN.EA platform will allow Mercedes-Benz to offer options tailored to both everyday needs and the most exclusive services. The VLE, with capacity for up to eight occupants, aims to be a versatile option for large families, transportation professionals, and VIP fleets, while the VLS will be positioned as a sophisticated electric limousine with an elevated luxury profile. Take note, as it aims to revolutionize electric mobility in the segment…
A demanding test: Stuttgart-Rome with only two stops…
To demonstrate the reliability and efficiency of their new technique, The company subjected the Mercedes-Benz VLE to one of the most demanding road tests.: a 1.090-kilometer journey from Stuttgart to Rome, crossing the Alps and tackling steep slopes, highways, and the dense traffic of Italian urban centers. The journey was completed in just 13 hours and required only two brief 15-minute recharges, maximizing travel times and the use of ultra-fast charging infrastructure.
During the crossing, the occupants enjoyed a constant temperature of 22 ºC inside, despite the external variability that ranged from 11°C to 33°C in Rome. This point, together with the capacity for energy recovery on alpine descents and the agility provided by steering on the rear axle, are a central part of Mercedes-Benz's approach to efficiency and comfort in large-format electric mobility.
Mercedes Van Electric Architecture: flexibility and technology at the service of electric mobility…
The technical basis of these new models is the VAN.EA platform (Van Electric Architecture), characterized by its modularity and adaptability to different body types and sizes. This architecture, which will also be inherited by future generations of the brand's commercial and private vehicles, features an 800-volt system, allowing for rapid charging of up to 22 kW using three-phase current and an optimized battery and engine configuration depending on the chosen variant.
The layout of three independent modules—a fixed front module, a central module that determines the length and capacity of the battery, and an optional rear module for all-wheel drive or front-wheel drive only— guarantees adaptability to meet the needs of passengers, cargo, or special equipment. Mercedes confirms that it will offer WLTP-approved ranges of over 500 km under optimal conditions, although real-life tests suggest ranges between 400 and 480 km under intensive use.
Clear differentiation between VLE and VLS…
Mercedes-Benz's strategy is to clearly separate the private versions (VLE and VLS) from the commercial onesThe VLE, aimed at customers seeking a spacious and highly modern minivan, will integrate the latest advances in connectivity, infotainment, and driver assistance, while maintaining the brand's high safety standards and comfort.
On the other hand, the VLS is considered a reference in luxury, with a quality on par with the firm's large sedans and maximum attention to detail in materials, insulation, and interior modularity. Both variants will be distributed in key markets such as the United States, Canada, and China, strengthening the manufacturer's global presence in the premium electric MPV segment.
Innovation in efficiency and handling: recovery, rear steering, and comfort…
One of the highlights of the test was the effectiveness of the regenerative braking system, which allowed for energy recovery on downhill slopes and reduced wear on traditional brakes. Furthermore, the steerable rear axle proved useful both on mountain roads, where it improved agility, and in urban environments with narrow streets, making maneuvering and parking easier.
The brand itself emphasizes that these tests, added to tests carried out in Norway under extreme cold and others at the Vitoria plant, are part of a rigorous verification program of the product before it reaches dealerships. Mercedes-Benz thus aims to accelerate development and ensure that production units meet expectations of range, reliability, and quality.
Revolution in electric vans…
The VLE and VLS represent the generational successor to the current V-Class and the EQV range, opting for a comprehensive electric mobility proposal and specifically for the minivan segment. The visual differentiation is notable: clean lines, retractable handles, an integrated roof, and aerodynamic elements to maximize efficiency.
Mercedes-Benz is looking for from family trips to luxury corporate transfers with the same technical platform, optimizing loading times and guaranteeing a user experience comparable to that of the most advanced passenger cars in its catalog.
The alpine odyssey of the EV prototypes confirms that long-distance travel with large electric vehicles, without sacrificing time or comfort, is now a tangible reality. This breakthrough consolidates Mercedes-Benz's commitment to more practical and efficient electric mobility, tailored to both private and high-end customers.
Source - Mercedes-Benz
Images | Mercedes-Benz
More information about this model
- Plazas 5 - 8
- Power 163 - 237 hp
- Consumption 7 - 7,8l/100km
- Valuation 4,6