Mercedes VLE Could Be The Most Opulent Minivan Ever In America

Mercedes-Benz is preparing to replace its aging EQV MPV with a pair of new electric models: the VLE and an even more luxurious variant called ‘VLS’ (think of the latter as the S-Class of minivans). Both are part of the brand’s VAN.EA (Van Electric Architecture) push, with a clean-sheet EV platform designed exclusively for German automaker’s future van lineup.
 

Numerous prototypes of the VLE have already been spotted undergoing Arctic Circle testing with only light camouflage. With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at what these models bring to the table before their official debut.
 
Electric Elegance
Previewed by Mercedes’ highly controversial and opinion-splitting Vision V concept, the VLE reduces the shock and awe, but still retains some key details. The front is still dominated by a puckered-looking grille panel, framed by tri-DRL headlights, a features lower chrome accents and a sculpted bumper.
 
From the side, it presents a dynamic profile with rear quarter glass that cascades downwards in a similar fashion to that of the almost-forgotten Mercedes R-Class. Further down, the shoulder line is deliberately pronounced above the front and rear wheel areas to reduce the slab-sidedness that plagues many other MPVs.
 
At the rear, the halo-style taillight cluster from the concept makes a near-complete transition to production, while the tailgate edges are chamfered to give a more sculpted, three-dimensional appearance.
 
An Opulent Interior
Inside, the VLE will inherit many design cues from the Vision V Concept and the production EQS, including an upright pillar-to-pillar MBUX Hyperscreen that runs the latest version of Mercedes-Benz’s (MB.OS) operating system.
 
Expect sustainable luxury materials, including recycled leathers and natural wood veneers. Seating layouts are expected to vary, with the VLE catering to larger groups with flexible three-row arrangements. Meanwhile, the VLS targets chauffeur-driven clients with individual captain’s chairs, lounge-style seating, and integrated work surfaces.
 
Key tech highlights include Level 2+ (with level 3 coming later) driver assistance, augmented-reality navigation, smart ambient lighting, and 4k rear entertainment screens with streaming integration. Wireless charging pads, an advanced Burmester sound system, and over-the-air software updates complete the package.
 
Scalable Architecture
Underpinning both vans is the new modular VAN.EA platform, which uses three core sections, namely front, center, and rear, to allow different vehicle sizes and specifications while sharing the same fundamental components. The architecture is designed around battery-first packaging, creating a flat floor, improved cabin space, and a lower center of gravity.
 
Rear-axle steering will improve maneuverability, a practical advantage for vehicles of this size. Meanwhile, Mercedes’ more utilitarian commercial vans will continue to rely on the separate VAN.CA combustion platform.
 
Potent Powertrain
While the final specifications are pending, the range will include both single and dual-motor setups. Expect a rear-mounted motor producing around 268 hp (200 kW) in entry-level models, while the dual-motor, 4MATIC all-wheel drive will have outputs closer to the 470 hp (350 kW) mark.
 
Battery capacities will likely start around 90 kWh and stretch beyond 116 kWh for long-range versions, enabling a WLTP range more than 311 miles (500 km). Thanks to an 800-volt electrical system, both models will offer a 22 kW AC charger, plus ultra-fast DC charging at up to 350 kW. Vehicle-to-grid and bi-directional charging are also expected to be part of the package.
 
Rivals and Reveal
The luxury van segment isn’t exactly awash with offerings, but competition is heating up. In markets outside North America, the VLE will face rivals such as the hybrid Lexus LM, Volvo EM90, and its Chinese sibling, the Zeekr 009. Over in the USA, where competition is limited at the more playful end of the scale, Volkswagen’s ID. Buzz LWB could potentially be cross-shopped with the VLE as well.
 
The official unveiling of both the VLE and VLS is expected later this year, with launches planned for North America, Europe, and China in early 2026.