Mercedes-Benz VLE punches into luxury van segment with next-level cabin and 700km range 

Mercedes-Benz has published the first model that can sit down on the corporate’s scalable Van Structure (VA) platform in the compose of the sumptuous VLE electric passenger MPV.

The VLE is affirm to launch later this One year with a decision of a front-wheel force VLE300 with a 203kW motor, or a VLE400 4MATIC with extra than 300kW of energy from dual motors.

It’ll interchange the outgoing EQV as the flagship Benz-badged passenger-ferrying van. For now, handiest fully electric variants were mentioned.

Faster charging and improved efficiency fortify road-tripping skills

Both launch grades inform nickel manganese cobalt battery packs with 115kWh usable capability. Subsequent One year, two 80kWh lithium iron phosphate variants will join the VLE lineup.

No unswerving observe but on whether or when the VLE will launch in Australia however the model’s presence on the native Mercedes-Benz online page is a lawful stamp this would be launched in the neighborhood.

Claimed differ for the front-force VLE300 shall be extra than 700km, in response to efficiency of spherical 16.4kWh/100km — an sizable enchancment of the EQV’s 326km (WLTP) differ.

Mercedes-Benz chalks up the doubling of differ to the VLE’s platform and hotfoot coefficient of 0.25 Cd, with battery capability handiest increased by 27 p.c. Weight is up 95kg to 2720kg.

The VLE runs on an 800-volt electrical architecture with a 15-minute recharging session acknowledged to refill spherical half of the battery (or 355km) at an common charging lag of 230kW.

Mercedes-Benz says that recharging tempo approach that a protracted-distance route of 1100km — a lot like Brisbane to Canberra in Australia — will require lawful two 15-minute charging breaks.

Larger than EQV, with styling cues taken from Vision V opinion

Dimensionally, the VLE has grown when put next with its predecessor. The unique model measures 5309mm long, 1999mm extensive and 1943mm excessive on a 3342mm wheelbase.

Outside, the styling of the VLE is toned down in contrast with the Vision V opinion that foreshadowed the unique model but some inspiration shines by.

The Vision V’s wraparound exterior light signature has been diminished to an upside-down ‘U’ opinion but an on hand traditional radiator grille with standing bonnet star made manufacturing.

Presumably most tidy in Odd Line guise, the VLE will additionally be on hand in decrease-finish favorite compose or as an AMG Line automobile. Wheel sizes measure 19- to 22-inches in diameter.

Below the skin, air suspension with 40mm of height adjustment joins on hand rear wheel steering, which reduces the turning circle to a CLA-admire 10.9 metres, Mercedes claims.

Upgraded interior amps up luxe sides to raised compete with Chinese vans

Inside of, ambient lighting fixtures runs from front to rear and there is a heavy emphasis on integration of cabin expertise in the model Mercedes is dubbing its ‘Titanic Limousine’.

That begins from the motive force’s console where a as a lot as the moment-period MBOS system powers MBUX Superscreen infotainment with twin 14-crawl displays and a 10.25-crawl instrument cluster.

5 to eight seats would possibly per chance presumably well also also be specified for the VLE, with the rear rows both appointed with bench seats or with particular person seating — alongside with a novel top-finish Titanic Comfort equipment.

That likelihood sees the 2d-row seats transformed with pillows, in-constructed rub down, lumbar adjustment, calf enhance and wireless map charging.

It’s a play that sees the VLE stage-up the emblem’s attention to the luxury MPV section in which Mercedes-Benz is an increasing selection of having to compete with highly specified Chinese vans.

The cabin would possibly per chance presumably well also also be optioned with an MBUX Rear Condo Abilities pack that sees a retractable 31.3-crawl 8K hide appear from the roof. A camera is incorporated for video conferencing.

Audio is by a 22-speaker Burmester 3D stereo with Dolby Atmos functionality.

Chauffeurs will care for the Far-off Variable Rear Condo system that can presumably enable the power-deployable seating to be rearranged from a smartphone app.

Obvious configurations of seating enable occupants to stroll from the first row all the rear. Both side have energy-sliding doorways with fully retracting dwelling windows.

A energy tailgate is non-compulsory. Boot house is presupposed to measure 795 litres with all three rows in affirm or as a lot as 4078 litres in two-seat mode — that is down on the EQV’s 4630L.