Mercedes-Benz has just unveiled its latest people-mover in the fully electric V-Class. Otherwise known as the VLE, it also debuts with the brand’s new ‘Van Architecture’—an all-new platform that aims to provide the comfort of a limousine and the flexibility of an MPV.
To deliver on these promises, Merc has crafted a modular cabin with fully adjustable and removable seats. The seats have also been redesigned, now featuring wireless charging, better calf support, and massage functions.
These systems, as well as the seats’ position around the interior, can all be controlled through the car’s app or the main display. Buyers can then configure their VLE for six-, seven-, or eight-passenger seating. 4Matic all-wheel drive and AMG-Line options are available as well.
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Merc has also loaded the electric V-Class with its Airmatic air suspension, giving the van up to 40mm of control. In terms of driving range, the van is rated for 700km, thanks to a 115kWh battery. Its exact power output has yet to be revealed, but Merc claims it can hit 100kph in just 6.5sec.
Design-wise, the VLE thankfully doesn’t look too radical—unlike the Vision V concept we saw in Shanghai. However, it still adopts the large gaping grille and tri-star headlights from the GLC Electric. Maybe this look will grow on us over time. Maybe.
Inside, it gets even more modern with multiple screens enveloping the front half of the van. That includes a retractable 31.3-inch 8k display, which is actually called the ‘MBUX Rear Space Experience.’ This is perfect for movies and taking your high-level conference calls—or at least that’s what Merc believes.
The rest of the cabin is outfitted in leather and wood, complementing those redesigned seats we mentioned earlier. Aside from its home market, the German carmaker will be importing the VLE to Great Britain, Ireland, South Korea, Japan, and the USA. No word yet on whether it’ll make its way to the Philippines. More as we get it.
