Mercedes-Benz unveils its new VLE MPV with 800V architecture

Mercedes-Benz Vans has just presented the VLE. Set to succeed the current EQV, this MPV debuts the new modular VAN.EA platform, developed from scratch for exclusive use in electric models. With it, Mercedes-Benz aims primarily to win over private customers who until now have found limitations in electric MPVs derived from commercial vehicles.

Unlike earlier models, in which the needs of professionals -limited range, slow overnight charging and a tight price- clashed with the expectations of private buyers, who demand high range, fast charging and performance close to that of saloons, the VLE largely avoids those compromises. Thanks to its 800V architecture, it offers charging power of up to 320 kW on DC, making it possible to recover hundreds of kilometres of range in just a few minutes.

VLE 2026 range

Mercedes-Benz initially offers three versions of the new VLE, which we list below along with their main technical specifications:

VLE 250 – Equipped with an 80 kWh LFP battery pack, thanks to which it is capable of covering between 400 and 450 km under the WLTP homologation cycle.

VLE 300 – This version features a 200 kW front motor, paired with a 115 kWh net NMC battery pack. The German manufacturer promises in this case a WLTP range of over 700 km.

VLE 400 4MATIC – At the top of the range, this version has dual motors and all-wheel drive with a combined output of 305 kW. The battery pack is the same as in the version directly below, with a slightly shorter range. Its performance is, however, as one would expect, considerably higher, reaching 100 km/h from a standstill in just 6.5 seconds.

A notable feature of the new VLE is its drag coefficient, of just 0.25. This is impressive for a vehicle of its class measuring more than five metres in length. 5.31 metres to be exact. Its dimensions are completed by a width of two metres and a height of 1.93 metres. Thanks to the low drag coefficient mentioned, Mercedes-Benz promises energy consumption of between 18 and 21 kWh per 100 km.

The new VLE also features steering on both axles, allowing it to manoeuvre with a turning circle of just 10.9 metres. Also worth highlighting are the standard electric sliding side doors, the integrated battery temperature preconditioning system, and bidirectional charging support for V2H and V2G.

You’ll feel right at home

Inside, the level of equipment is truly remarkable, placing it on a par with a premium saloon such as the E-Class from Mercedes-Benz itself. It offers 6, 7 or 8-seat configurations, mechanical or electric rear seats with remote adjustment via app, individual Grand Comfort seats with massage, footrests and wireless charging, a centre console fridge, a 79 cm retractable panoramic 8K screen, a front Superscreen and advanced climate control with heat pump and multiple zones.

The new VLE will be produced at the German manufacturer’s plant located in the Spanish town of Vitoria. As for its price, although it has not yet been officially announced, some sources estimate a base price of around 68,000 euros including VAT for the entry-level VLE 250, about 79,000 euros for the mid-range VLE 300, and between 110,000 and 113,000 euros for the top-of-the-range version with the higher trim levels Exclusive or AMG Line.