Mercedes VLE: a test drive of the new large electric van, as luxurious and comfortable as a limousine
Cutting-edge technology on a par with the most sophisticated of the latest Mercedes models, refined interiors and a wealth of features are the key elements with which the VLE makes its debut in the Grand Limousine segment, setting new standards for versatility and offering a range of up to 700 kilometres
The large-scale electrification of Mercedes’ MPVs and, subsequently, its commercial vehicles starts at the top, with the VLE. An all-new model that takes the limousine concept to a whole new – and enormous – level, with a length starting at 5.31 metres, combining state-of-the-art technology with the refinement and comfort one would expect from a flagship model. In short, the VLE ushers in the era of the Grand Limousine.
Mercedes VLE, sophisticated electric architecture and four-wheel steering
The new model joins the Mercedes electric range, initially featuring a dedicated 800 V software-defined modular architecture. It is called the Van.At present, it offers the 300 single-motor, front-wheel-drive version with 272 cavalli and the 400 dual-motor, all-wheel-drive version with 415 cavalli, which will be launched at a later date. For the record, the Van.Ca platform, intended for vans and commercial vehicles with internal combustion engines, will be derived from this platform.
The six variants in which the VLE makes its debut are fitted with a 115 kWh net NMC battery, which, in the case of the 300 version, promises a range of up to 700 kilometres. Charging can be carried out using 22 kW AC or up to 300 kW DC, in which case 355 kilometres of range can be restored in fifteen minutes. The VLE is equipped with regenerative braking that can be adjusted in various stages using the steering wheel paddles, and also includes an AI-supported automatic function. Versions with an 80 kWh LFP battery will also be launched next year.
The technologies featured on the VLE are, essentially, those that made their debut with the GLC EQ SUV and have since been incorporated into the C-Class EQ and the updated versions of the GLE and GLS SUVs, as well as the flagship S-Class. Therefore, these include the architecture, which in this case incorporates rear-wheel steering as standard, resulting in a turning circle of 10.9 metres – comparable to that of the CLA saloon – and, above all, the MB digital platform.An AI-powered OS that manages and connects every vehicle function to optimise efficiency, charging, advanced Level 2 semi-autonomous driving, dynamism, comfort, digitalisation and connectivity. The Airmatic air suspension, on the other hand, is available as an option; it independently dampens each wheel to optimise dynamism, efficiency and comfort. For example, it reduces ground clearance by 15 millimetres at speed and by 40 millimetres when stationary to facilitate access, as well as increasing it by 40 millimetres to tackle unpaved roads. It should be noted that, of the six VLE variants, only some are listed with a kerb weight of 35 quintali and can therefore be driven with a Category B driving licence, whilst others reach 37 quintali and thus require a Category C licence.
