Mercedes-Benz Unveils VLE Electric Van: Over 700 km Range and Cutting-Edge Tech
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the new electric minivan Mercedes-Benz VLE. The model is considered a successor to the electric version of the V-Class and an alternative to the Mercedes-Benz EQV.
What is known
The Mercedes-Benz VLE is built on an 800-volt electric architecture, equipped with a new electric powertrain and a wide range of digital features and driver assistance systems. According to the manufacturer, the range exceeds 700 km according to the WLTP cycle.
In the base version, a synchronous electric motor with permanent magnets (PSM) is installed in the front. All-wheel drive is implemented by an additional rear motor, which is activated only when necessary.
Fast charging and battery
The Mercedes-Benz EQV received a 115 kWh lithium-ion NMC battery. At fast charging stations with a power of more than 300 kW, the energy reserve can be replenished by approximately 355 km in 15 minutes. The car is also initially prepared for bidirectional charging.
Suspension and handling
The optional AIRMATIC air suspension uses Google Maps data for the first time. The system pre-lowers the ground clearance on high-speed sections to reduce air resistance. The new Car-to-X function also automatically adjusts the suspension stiffness before passing over bumps.
An additional rear-wheel steering system with a turning angle of up to 7° is offered, reducing the curb-to-curb turning radius by 2 m to 10.9 m, and the wall-to-wall distance to 11.6 m.
At speeds up to 60 km/h, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to the front for improved maneuverability. At speeds above 60 km/h, they turn in the same direction, increasing vehicle stability during lane changes and emergency maneuvers.
Interior and digital features
The centerpiece of the cabin is a new version of the MBUX system built on the Mercedes-Benz OS platform.
The optional MBUX Superscreen combines three displays under a single glass panel:
- 10.25-inch digital instrument panel
- 14-inch central screen
- 14-inch passenger display
The interface uses real-time Unity-based graphics. The Zero Layer concept brings main functions and contextual hints to the main screen without a complex menu structure.
The new MBUX Virtual Assistant uses artificial intelligence for natural dialogue and can integrate third-party service data, including Google Maps.
For passengers in the second row, a retractable 31.3-inch panoramic 8K screen is provided. Through the MB.OS system, more than 40 third-party apps can be installed, including Disney+, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom.
Navigation and driver assistance systems
The Electric Intelligence navigation system calculates routes with optimal charging stops, taking into account terrain, temperature, and road conditions. Before arriving at the charging station, the system automatically prepares the battery for fast charging.
The sensor suite includes 10 cameras, 5 radars, and 12 ultrasonic sensors.
The MB.DRIVE driver assistance system supports automated driving functions up to SAE Level 2, including automatic lane change and city traffic assistant.
The parking assistant now recognizes even unmarked spots and can automatically park the vehicle at speeds of up to 5 km/h.
Source: Mercedes-Benz
