With the VLE, Mercedes-Benz is preparing to open a new chapter in premium electromobility. This large electric luxury MPV, due to be unveiled worldwide on 10 March 2026 in Stuttgart, will inaugurate the brand new VAN.EA platform. Its stated ambition is to combine the comfort of a limousine, the space of a van and the technological standards of the next decade.
A clear will of your own
Mercedes is no longer hiding its intentions. The future ELV will not simply be an electrified derivative of the current V-Class, but a model in its own right, designed from the outset for electric power and for the very top end of the market. Halfway between a large family MPV and a luxury commuter, it is clearly aimed at premium customers looking for comfort, space and cutting-edge technology. This positioning is in line with a fundamental trend in the market, where the van is becoming a credible alternative to the classic limousine. For Mercedes, it’s also a way of regaining control of a segment where new players, particularly from Asia, are beginning to impose their standards in terms of on-board experience and luxury features.
The date is official: the Mercedes VLE will be presented on 10 March 2026 in Stuttgart. The brand has already started distilling teasers. Above all, the launch will mark a major world first: that of the VAN.EA platform in its production version. The VLE will be the very first vehicle to be based on this architecture dedicated to electric vans. This pioneering role gives it particular importance in Mercedes’ electrification strategy. VAN.EA is intended to serve as the basis for a whole family of vehicles, from top-of-the-range family vans to the most luxurious VIP shuttles.
The ambition for premium comfort
Unlike the current EQV, which is still based on an internal combustion platform, VAN.EA has been designed exclusively for electric vehicles. This choice will enable much better integration of the batteries, optimised volumes and much greater design freedom. The aim is an even more spacious cabin and a better compromise between range, performance and comfort. The other key element of this platform is undoubtedly its 800-volt architecture. A technology that is still rare in this type of vehicle, but essential for offering very high recharging power. Mercedes has already mentioned capacities of up to 350kW, which would place the ELV among the segment’s best performers in terms of fast charging.
On board, the VLE clearly sets itself apart from the traditional commercial image. The integration of the batteries in the floor frees up space and enables an interior architecture geared towards comfort and modularity. Mercedes promises a cabin where every centimetre is optimised for passenger comfort. The van will be able to accommodate up to eight people, with configurations suited to both demanding families and top-of-the-range business use. Initial descriptions suggest a ride worthy of a limousine, plenty of freedom of movement and plenty of storage space, all in a resolutely premium ambience.
An assertive design for a new-generation van
In terms of looks, the Mercedes VLE does not play the discreet card. The first teasers reveal a distinctive front end, with a large closed grille and daytime running lights featuring a star motif directly inspired by the Vision V. A lighting signature designed to assert the vehicle’s status. With this VLE, Mercedes is not content to simply electrify an existing van. The brand is redefining its vision of zero-emission premium transport by offering a credible alternative to traditional limousines and the new players in electric luxury. A key model, destined to become the technological and statutory showcase for Mercedes vans of the future.
Sources: Press release dated 24 July 2025 – Mercedes-Benz / mondial.paris / www.mercedes-kroely.fr /
