Mercedes is preparing its upcoming electric passenger vehicles
The automotive world is abuzz with excitement as Mercedes-Benz prepares to launch its next-generation electric people-carrier, the VLE MPV, in 2026. This innovative vehicle will be built on the cutting-edge VAN.EA architecture, marking the first time this advanced EV platform will be used in Mercedes-Benz's lineup.
The VLE MPV, designed with families in mind, will boast up to eight seats and is expected to have a battery pack size between 90 kWh and 116 kWh, potentially offering a range exceeding 300 km (approx. 186 miles) per charge. Fast charging capabilities will be enabled by an 800V electrical system, allowing for quick recharging up to 320 kW.
During testing, the VLE MPV demonstrated impressive efficiency, traversing a gruelling 683-mile route through the Alps from Stuttgart, Germany to Rome, Italy, with only two short charging stops. The VLE's sister vehicle, the VLS, is also set to be released in 2026 and will be aimed towards the VIP shuttle market, similar to the current V-Class.
Andreas Zygan, head of development for Mercedes-Benz Vans, expressed his satisfaction with the VLE's performance, stating that it demonstrated impressive efficiency during long-distance tests. The VLE's flexible layouts, drivetrains, and advanced suspension, including rear-axle steering, are designed to improve maneuverability.
The VLE MPV and its sister VLS will form a two-pronged attack on the people-carrier market, offering both families and businesses a more sustainable and efficient transportation solution. The VLE MPV's impressive range and fast charging capabilities make it a strong contender in the electric MPV segment, while the VLS's focus on luxury and comfort caters to the VIP shuttle market.
As the automotive industry continues to shift towards electric vehicles, Mercedes-Benz is leading the charge with innovative technologies like the VAN.EA architecture and the VLE MPV. With its focus on sustainability, efficiency, and performance, the VLE MPV is poised to become a game-changer in the electric people-carrier market. Exact specifications will be confirmed closer to the model’s launch, but one thing is certain: the future of Mercedes-Benz electric vehicles is looking bright.
[1] Source: Mercedes-Benz press release, 2023.
- The innovation in the automotive industry is evident with Mercedes-Benz's entry into the electric-vehicles sector, as they prepare to launch their next-generation electric people-carrier, the VLE MPV, in 2026.
- The VLE MPV will not only cater to families but also businesses, as it is designed to offer a more sustainable and efficient transportation solution in the people-carrier market.
- The VLE MPV's electric-vehicle (EV) platform, VAN.EA, will debut in Mercedes-Benz's lineup, promising improved maneuverability through advanced suspension systems, such as rear-axle steering.
- The focus on technology in the VLE MPV is evident with its fast charging capabilities, enabled by an 800V electrical system, allowing for quick recharging up to 320 kW, which sets a high standard in the electric MPV segment.
