Minivans are nowhere near the most popular vehicles on the road, but many companies remain committed to the format. Surprisingly, the list includes Mercedes-Benz, which recently revealed its upcoming VLE, an electric van with a sleek shape, a “limousine-like’ driving experience, and an all-new platform. Having shown the model in classic camo, the automaker has now shared a new teaser photo on Facebook.
Mercedes is building the VLE on its new modular, scalable van platform, which allows it to build multiple distinct models on the same architecture, such as the VLE and the related VLS, a more utilitarian van model. The VLE seats up to eight, while the VLW is oriented more toward work customers.
The VLE teaser image doesn’t show much, but we can clearly see a large grille with an illuminated surround and unique tri-star LED daytime running lights. The van’s shape is clearly visible, however, showing a surprisingly sporty-looking vehicle with a low, aggressive stance. While it looks cool, that shape also boosts aerodynamics and high-speed stability.
Mercedes hasn’t detailed the VLE’s range, but it has demonstrated the van’s charging capabilities with a 1,100km trip from Stuttgart to Rome. The VLE made the trip with two 15-minute charging stops, which Mercedes said demonstrates its convenience and capabilities for everyday drivers.
There’s no word on whether the VLE will come to the United States. Mercedes sells the Sprinter van here, but it hasn’t offered a tried-and-true minivan since the R-Class, which hasn’t sold in almost a decade. That said, the company may offer internal combustion powertrains for the VLE and VLS in the future, which could make them more appealing to American buyers. Mercedes already builds Sprinter vans in South Carolina, leaving the door open to a potential VLE production line in the States.
Mercedes-Benz VLE Development Drive Stuttgart-Rome
Mercedes-Benz
The VLE and related VLS are expected to arrive in 2026, and, according to Automotive World, pre-production has already started at the automaker’s plant in Vitoria, Spain. Mercedes noted that the van’s development took place in record time, moving from idea to design to testing very quickly.
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