Luxury now has a new name, according to Mercedes-Benz. It’s called a grad limousine. Think minivan, but with all of the family-friendly appointments replaced to maximize passenger comfort. That’s what the new Mercedes-Benz VLE is.
This latest battery-electric vehicle follows the new CLA and GLB. Featuring a sleek aerodynamic look, this grand limousine has a surprisingly low drag coefficient of 0.25. Impressive for something so boxy and upright. Like the smaller models, the VLE features the brand’s latest design language, complete with daytime running lights patterned after Mercedes’ iconic three-pointed star emblem. Out back, the taillights are integrated into the aerodynamic spoiler lip. The VLE also has an optional Sky View panoramic roof with ambient lighting.
Mercedes-Benz VLE: All About the Cabin Experience
Step inside the VLE through the power sliding doors and you’ll immediately see why Mercedes calls it a grand limousine. It features seating for up to eight, depending on the seat type you choose for the second and third rows. In addition to the familiar bench configuration, you can opt for the Premium Comfort or Grand Comfort seats. The latter adds pillows, wireless charging, lumbar support, a massage function, and calf support. You can also add folding tables for a truly first-class experience.
Additionally, you can move the second and third rows via the infotainment system, the seat control buttons on the side, or the Mercedes-Benz app. This also enables fourconfigurations via the Remote Variable Space feature. Baggage mode maximizes cargo space, while Executive maximizes second-row legroom by moving it all the way back. People & Baggage mode balanced passenger and cargo capacity. Finally, Standard mode puts all the seats back into their original position.
In addition to the various seating configurations, Mercedes also offers additional customization options. These include several center console options, which can be configured with extra storage, two wireless chargers, UV disinfection, and temperature-controlled compartments.
AI-Backed Tech
Like the CLA and GLB, the VLE has MB. OS with over-the-air update capability and it’s linked to the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud. It features a full suite of driver assistance features connected to a water-cooled high-performance computer. This includes MB. DRIVE, which helps with steering, braking, accelerating, and parking. It will also feature MB. DRIVE ASSIST PRO. However, Mercedes didn’t disclose its full functionality.
On the infotainment front, the MBUX Superscreen is available as an option. It features a 10.25-inch digital cluster, a 14-inch main touchscreen, and an optional 14-inch front passenger screen. The MBUX Superscreen uses high-performance microprocessors from the Unity Game Engine to display real-time graphics. Additionally, the massive 23.1-inch head-up display features augmented reality navigation directions. The VLE’s MBUX interface uses AI from ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing, and Google Gemini, combining multiple assistants into one. As a result, you can talk to the MBUX Virtual Assistant using natural speech, and it even has short-term memory. Finally, the native navigation system uses Google Maps to route you to your destination and includes charging stops.
Those sitting in the rear receive the most pampering. The VLE features a retractable 31.3-inch panorama screen with split screen function and 8K resolution. Simply say, “Hey Mercedes, start the cinema experience” to deploy the display, all while the seats move to a comfortable position and the window shades close. A 22-speaker Burmester 3D surround sound system complements the massive screen and features Dolby Atmos technology. An eight-megapixel camera allows for video calls on the road. The system also supports over 40 apps, including music streaming, video conferencing, and more. For those who want to play video games on the road, you can connect your phone or gaming controller to the vehicle via Bluetooth.
Mercedes-Benz VLE: Effortless and Efficient Power
The first model to arrive at launch is the VLE 300. It features a single electric motor with 203 kW or 272 hp. As for the range, the WLTP rates it at 700 km or a whopping 435 miles. Following that will be the VLE 400 4Matic, the dual-motor AWD model with 305 kW or 409 hp. Both variants feature a 115-kWh NMC battery. An 800-volt charging architecture is designed to maximize efficiency and performance, all while reducing charging times. Mercedes says that the VLE can gain 355 km or 220 miles in 15 minutes under ideal conditions. As standard, it has a peak DC charging rate of 300 kW, and an optional DC converter allows for charging at 400-volt stations.
To achieve the incredible driving range, Mercedes equipped the VLE with a front permanently excited synchronous motor that has 93 percent battery-to-wheel efficiency. Additionally, the rear motor on AWD models only engages when additional power or traction is required. A Disconnect Unit handles this function. Both motors also use silicon-carbide inverters for improved efficiency.
To complement its smooth power with an equally plush ride, the VLE features AIRMATIC air suspension with intelligent suspension control. For the first time, it uses Google Maps data to keep the vehicle as low as possible for as long as possible to reduce drag and energy consumption. The system can raise or lower the vehicle by 1.5 inches for additional ground clearance and easier entry or exit. Furthermore, the rear-wheel steering system can turn up to seven degrees, reducing the curb-to-curb turning circle to 35.75 feet. As a result, the VLE has a similar turning circle to the CLA. A more direct steering ratio also allows for fewer turns of the steering wheel to make a full turn.
Yes, It’s Coming to America
Yup, Mercedes-Benz confirmed the VLE for the U.S. market. This marks the first time a luxury brand has brought a van or MPV Stateside. Expect our version to have an NACS or J3400 port as standard for easy access to Tesla Superchargers. Pricing should be announced closer to its official U.S. arrival in 2027.
Source: Mercedes-Benz
