Mercedes VLS & VLE Names For The Mercedes V-Class

Mercedes is redefining its van strategy from 2026 when the first model on the dedicated electric VAN.EA platform will debut. We explain the differences between Mercedes VLE and VLS.
 

Mercedes is reorganizing its van division. It’s not just the platform that’s completely new but also the model lineup. There will be two models based on the upcoming V-Class: the VLE and the VLS. As the name suggests, these models will be positioned in the same way as the E-Class and S-Class are positioned in the limousine segment. Thus, the Mercedes VLE will operate in the business segment, and the VLS will operate in the luxury segment.
 
The Mercedes VLE is intended for families and shuttle services, while the VLS is targeted for VIP shuttle services and high-end customers. The Mercedes VLE will have electric propulsion, and later, hybrid propulsion is also possible, while the VLS will feature exclusively electric propulsion with one or two motors (all-wheel drive). Although Mercedes had originally announced that there would be a single, all-electric platform for vans, called VAN.EA, Mercedes has changed its strategy due to poor sales of electric models.
 
There will now be two platforms: the all-electric VAN.EA and the VAN.CA for models with combustion engines.
 
The VAN.EA platform with two model types
The VAN.EA platform will debut in 2026 and is characterized by great flexibility: a standardized front module that includes the electric propulsion system, a central module that can be varied according to the wheelbase of the car, and a rear module that can be optionally equipped with an additional propulsion system. Front-wheel or all-wheel drive versions can thus be offered without major structural modifications.
 
The VAN.EA platform will be used for two model types:
– VAN.EA-P dedicated to private customers will offer a range of more than 500 km and will include shuttle versions, luxury recreational vehicles, and an electric version of the Marco Polo camper van to compete with the long-wheelbase VW ID.Buzz.
– VAN.EA-C is dedicated to commercial applications, which will include commercial vehicles of various wheelbases and heights and special-purpose models such as ambulances.
 
The VAN.CA platform
Not originally planned but Mercedes realized that there is still demand for vans with internal combustion engines and that there are regions of the world where the charging station infrastructure is underdeveloped. Therefore, the VAN.CA (Van Combustion Architecture) platform will continue to be used for the next-generation Vito/V-Class and Sprinter with internal combustion engines, as it is a scalable platform.
 
The VAN.CA platform will share 70% of its components with VAN.EA platform which allows the production of both models on the same production line.
 
Because the VAN.CA platform can only be used for the large and luxury classes, smaller vans cannot be developed on it. But Mercedes has just announced that it will discontinue the Citan/T-Class compact class vans from 2026.