Mercedes-Benz Unveils All-Electric VLE Grand Limousine

Mercedes-Benz revealed the VLE, an all-electric grand limousine that combines luxury sedan ride quality with multi-purpose vehicle versatility. Built on the brand’s new Van Architecture and powered by the MB.OS operating system, the VLE seats up to eight passengers and delivers more than 700 kilometers of estimated WLTP range through an 800-volt charging system and a 115-kWh NMC battery.

Two powertrain options will be available at launch. The rear-wheel-drive VLE 300 produces 203 kW, while the all-wheel-drive VLE 400 4MATIC delivers 305 kW and reaches 60 mph in 6.4 seconds. The 800-volt architecture supports DC fast charging at more than 300 kW, recovering up to 355 kilometers of range in just 15 minutes.

“The all-new VLE marks the beginning of a new era for Mercedes-Benz,” said Thomas Klein, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans. “Combining MPV-like versatility with limousine-like driving comfort and an immersive spatial experience, it’s unlike any other vehicle with up to eight seats.”

At the heart of the experience is a cabin that seats up to eight passengers with exceptional flexibility. Mechanical and electrical seating options include lumbar and calf support along with a massage function. A Sky View panoramic glass roof and surround ambient lighting round out the interior’s sense of space and calm.

Inside, the VLE offers six to eight seats across up to three rows with extensive configuration options. Electrically adjustable seats can be repositioned remotely via the infotainment system or the Mercedes-Benz app. A retractable 31.3-inch 8K panoramic screen drops from the headliner, backed by a 22-speaker Burmester Dolby Atmos sound system and an integrated camera for video conferencing.

The fourth-generation MBUX system integrates AI from ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing, and Google Gemini, with Google Maps-based navigation that factors in charging stops. A full suite of driver assistance features and over-the-air update capability round out the package.

AIRMATIC air suspension and seven-degree rear-axle steering deliver a smooth, controlled ride. The MB.DRIVE suite provides a comprehensive set of driver assistance features.

Available electric sliding doors with HANDS-FREE Access and a full suite of digital displays round out a vehicle that Mercedes-Benz describes as the beginning of a new era for the brand.

With a drag coefficient of 0.25, and rear-axle steering, the VLE is engineered to be as capable as it is comfortable. U.S. availability is expected in 2027.