Mercedes-Benz reveals VLE electric minivan

The “grand limousine” rides on the company’s flexible Van Architecture and gets exceptional range thanks to a 115-kWh battery.

The Mercedes-Benz VLE front — *The Mercedes-Benz VLE electric minivan is headed to market. – Mercedes-Benz Canada photo*

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled its long-anticipated all-electric VLE minivan.

Canadian market details weren’t provided so stay tuned for market launch and pricing information to come.

Mercedes-Benz said the new VLE, which it calls a “grand limousine,” blends limousine-like ride comfort and the handling and versatility of a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV).

Mercedes-Benz VLE rear and side — *Mercedes-Benz set out to create an electric minivan that is comfortable, versatile and has long range. – Mercedes-Benz Canada photo*

Architecture and powertrain

The VLE rides on the company’s new, flexible and scalable Van Architecture, and it has a drag coefficient of 0.25 cd, helping it glide through the air and achieve solid range.

The VLE 300, which will launch first, will feature a 272-hp (203 kW) powertrain powered by a 115-kWh capacity battery.

Based on WLTP test standards observed in Europe, Mercedes-Benz estimates a driving range of more than 700 kilometres. Canada’s NRCan standards are a bit tougher so expect that number to be reported lower when the minivan goes on sale here.

Then there’s the VLE 400 4MATIC, which has an all-wheel-drive powertrain with 409 hp (305 kW). A range estimate wasn’t provided. Mercedes-Benz said the more powerful version will sprint from zero to 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds.

Both VLEs utilize an 800-volt architecture for quick charging.

Mercedes-Benz VLE rear screen — *Rear seat occupants have access to an 8K widescreen with split-screen capability. – Mercedes-Benz photo*

Technological showcase

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s take a look at the technology being packed into the VLE.

Occupants in the rear have access to a 31.3-inch panoramic display with 8K resolution. The screen is hidden in the headliner above the front seats and is retractable. The screen has split-screen functionality and an eight megapixel camera, should you need it for video calls or conferences.

The screen uses the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX), which runs on the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS).

The MB.OS has over-the-air update capability and serves as the vehicle’s brain. It helps run such functions as distance assist, lane-change assist, collision prevention maneuvering and more.

Mercedes-Benz VLE cabin front — *The Mercedes-Benz VLE has an available MBUX Superscreen. – Mercedes-Benz Canada photo*

Up front, the cockpit features a floating MBUX Superscreen comprised of three screens. These include a 10.25-inch driver display, 14-inch centre display and an optional 14-inch front passenger display.

The front passenger can play personalized entertainment, including video streaming, gaming and use apps with graphics powered by the Unity Game Engine.

There is also an optional driver head-up display with augmented navigation. This provides the driver with a virtual 23.1-inch image that appears to be floating in front of the vehicle.

Audiophiles will be excited about the availability of a Burmester 3D surround sound system with 22 loudspeakers and Dolby Atmos technology.

Mercedes-Benz VLE cabin rear — *The Mercedes-Benz VLE can be optioned with six- to eight-seat configurations. – Mercedes-Benz Canada photo*

Comfort

Mercedes-Benz set out to give the VLE exceptional comfort. It includes an Airmatic air suspension with 40 millimetres of level control and intelligent suspension control.

There are also seven degrees of rear-axle steering, for improved maneuverability in tight corners.

The automaker used extensive sound insulation from the front to the rear. The architecture is said to be highly rigid and the drivetrain components are isolated to help reduce vibrations and noise.

The sliding doors on either side can open hands-free.

The VLE is also fitted with a Sky View one-piece fixed-glass panoramic roof.

Mercedes-Benz VLE rear seats facing each other — *Various seating configurations are available in the VLE. – Mercedes-Benz photo*

Versatility

Mercedes-Benz created a versatile vehicle by offering flexibility on the inside. It can be optioned with six to eight seats, which can be configured in different ways.

Rear seats include the Premium Comfort Seat and Grand Comfort Seat options.

Mercedes-Benz VLE third-row seats — *The Grand Comfort Seats have improved comfort features. – Mercedes-Benz photo*

The Grand Comfort Seat option includes an additional pillow, wireless charging, lumbar support with massage function and calf support.

There are also flexible folding tables.

If you need to haul more people, you can choose a three-seat benches for the back.

Mercedes-Benz VLE cargo area — *The rear seats can be folded or removed, depending on your needs. – Mercedes-Benz photo*

A Roll & Go feature allows owners to move and remove manually operated seats. They can be moved forwards and backwards and locked into place and they can be removed, should you need more cargo space. The seats have integrated wheels so you can roll them away once they’re out of the vehicle.

With all three rows of seats in, you get up to 795 litres of cargo space.

We’re still awaiting Canadian market details. For updates, visit the Mercedes-Benz Canada website.