Mercedes-Benz begins series production of the VLE van in Vitoria

The first Mercedes-Benz model developed on the new VAN.EA electric platform is already rolling off the assembly line at the Spanish Vitoria plant. We are obviously referring to the VLE MPV, which completes the German manufacturer’s range of electric vehicles as the natural successor to the EQV.

Mercedes-Benz began accepting orders for this new model last April, even before it reached dealerships and interested customers could try it in person. The starting price of the new VLE is 82,260 euros in the German market, although more affordable versions are expected to arrive in the near future at around 70,000 euros.

Starting series production of the VLE is an important milestone for the Vitoria plant. To adapt to the demands of the VAN.EA platform, the facilities have undergone a comprehensive modernisation, including the creation of new bodywork, paint and assembly sections, as well as improvements in logistics and IT infrastructure.

Thanks to this renovation, the plant now has a highly flexible production line ready to build vehicles with different types of propulsion, combining digitalisation, efficiency and a forward-looking vision. Preproduction of the VLE began in September 2025 to refine processes and gain operational experience.

The VLE is finally a reality

The official start of series production of the VLE on 12 June of this year was attended by senior executives of Mercedes-Benz, including the company’s Chief Executive Officer, Ola Källenius.

“The start of series production of the VLE fills us with satisfaction. The successful transformation of the plant and the progressive scaling of production are the result of the daily commitment of our employees, who tackle demanding tasks with great experience, flexibility and passion. They have made this transformation possible and make Vitoria a centre of vital importance for the future of Mercedes-Benz Vans.”

The VLE aims to offer the best of both worlds: the comfort of a luxury vehicle combined with the dynamic behaviour of a large MPV. Thanks to the 800-volt architecture of the VAN.EA platform, it supports charging power of up to 300 kW. According to the manufacturer, in just 15 minutes it is possible to recover enough energy to travel up to 355 km (WLTP). With an approximate total range of 700 km, this MPV theoretically allows a thousand kilometres to be covered with a single 15-minute charging stop.