In 2026, the all-electric VLE will hit the roads and mark the beginning of a new era at Mercedes‑Benz Vans. With up to eight seats, the VLE portfolio will range from flexible vehicles for families and leisure active customers, to exclusive VIP shuttles. As added value for customers is key for Mercedes-Benz, the future VLE will suit perfectly the customers’ needs and demands, in terms of design, functions and usability. Bringing the best of two worlds together, the all-electric VLE combines limousine-like driving behaviour with MPV-like versatility. Now, prototypes of the VLE successfully passed the next major steps in the development program by proving its uncompromising efficiency in three different disciplines: First: Proof of aerodynamics in wind tunnel In gruelling tests in the Mercedes-Benz wind tunnel in Stuttgart, the VLE braved the fiercest winds. Second: High-speed drives at test track At the test track in Nardò, Southern Italy, the Mercedes-Benz experts increased efficiency by fine-tuning under extremely dynamic handling and at high speeds. Third: Long-range journey from Stuttgart to Rome Recently, the Mercedes-Benz VLE successfully underwent a long-range journey by traveling almost 1,100 kilometres from Stuttgart to Rome with only two short charging stops of 15 minutes each.
