The newest Mercedes-Benz VLE 300 electric MPV combines 800V battery tech with limousine-level luxury, top-shelf infotainment options, room for eight, and enough rear legroom to make an S-Class feel like a mini Cooper.
Mercedes says its just-released new electric van model creates a new vehicle segment all its own, with four-wheel steering that helps the VLE handle like a sedan and ride like a luxury car and up to 300 kW (~400 hp) available from the electric motor, the big van promises to deliver an on-road performance worthy of the three-pointed-star’s performance heritage.
“The all-new electric VLE is a genuine game changer,” says Andreas Zygan, Head of Development of Mercedes-Benz Vans. “With seven-degree rear-axle steering and AIRMATIC air suspension it handles like a compact car and rides like a true premium limousine. And with more than 700 km (~435 miles) of range and up to 355 km (~220 miles) recharged in 15 minutes, the VLE redefines what everyday electric mobility can mean for a vehicle of this size.”
It’s nice in there
While the new VLE-Class Mercedes-Benz van can be configured as a last-mile delivery van, utility truck, or people-hauling MPV, it’s the higher-spec “Grand Limousine” edition and sporty the AMG Line edition (in red, below) that the company is showing off today.
“With the all-new VLE, we are redefining electric mobility for families, businesses and leisure-active customers alike,” explains Thomas Klein, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans. “Our Grand Limousine for up to eight people is exceptionally spacious, intelligent, efficient and delivers impressive agility and long-distance comfort. The VLE is perfectly designed around real customer needs and engineered to further exceed their expectations.”
Another neat feature of the new VLE is that its individual seats and benches can be configured in a number of different ways, so a people-hauler can become a cargo hauler in minutes. The highlight of the new seating options, however, is the electric Grand Comfort Seat at the center of the Grand Limousine that offers an additional pillow, armrests, cupholders, wireless charging, lumbar support, massage function, and even calf support.
Enough of the limousine, though – if you’ve been harboring a secret love for the Renault Espace F1 minivan built by Williams in 1995, you’ll probably be able to appreciate the sporty, 400 hp VLE 300 AMG Line version.
This people mover MOVES
With 400 hp and instant electric torque, the big van (it’s significantly bigger than the Odysseys, Pacficas, or Siennas you’re probably used to) can rocket from 0-60 mph in just 6.5 seconds. Slow compared to the quickest Tesla Model X or Lucid Gravity models, but surely quick enough to strike terror into the kids’ soccer team.
And, let’s face it, if you’re shopping for a thrill ride with this much cargo space, you’re already used to making some compromises.
Mercedes-Benz launched the VLE 300 in Germany at €82,260 (about $95,000 USD at current exchange rates), but that can easily climb into the six-figure range if you option it right (or, wrong, I guess). That’s a bananas price for a minivan, maybe – but in the realm of high-end luxury Mercedes models, it might be considered affordable. You guys will have to be the judge of that. Let us know what you think of this big Benz in the comments.
SOURCE | IMAGES: Mercedes-Benz.
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