To debut the VLE Class in the United States, Mercedes-Benz introduced a new, high-tech electric minivan set to arrive in 2028.
First, it is worth noting that this is not Mercedes’ first van in the U.S. market. The German automaker found significant success with the Sprinter and, for a time, with the mid-size Metris.
However, although these vans were configured for passengers, they were primarily sold for commercial use. This is expected to change with the VLE-Class, as Mercedes prepares to launch its first passenger van designed specifically for the U.S. market.
Although technically a minivan, Mercedes prefers the term “grand limousine” to describe its intended use: luxury transport. This market, currently dominated by large SUVs, creates an opportunity for a van that is more spacious, with easier entry and exit thanks to sliding doors with separately opening windows.
On the exterior, the VLE retains the illuminated grille edge from its concept at the front and the Mercedes logo, which can optionally be placed on the hood. At the rear, the light array extends above the rear window. Notably, the tailgate features a large rear window that also opens separately.
There are multiple interior configurations, with a total seating capacity of up to eight. The middle row can be a three-person bench, two individual seats facing forward or backward, or two Grand Comfort seats with tables stored in the side armrest, a foldable footrest, and a massage function.
The rear row can feature two seats: a 60/40 split three-person bench or an electric three-person seat. Manual rear seats can slide forward and backward or be removed entirely, while electric rear seats cannot be removed but can be adjusted via door switches, the central touchscreen, or a remote control.
Up front, buyers can choose from multiple center console options: the smaller version detaches from the dashboard and allows passage to the rear, while the larger version fills the space between the front seats and offers an optional refrigerated or heated compartment and a fragrance atomizer.
The VLE features Mercedes-Benz’s latest MBUX operating system, including an AI-powered digital assistant. A Superscreen spanning the dashboard is available as an option, oriented more vertically than the Hyperscreen found in other Mercedes models.
It includes three displays: a 10.3-inch driver display, a 14.0-inch central unit, and a 14.0-inch screen for the front passenger. In the rear, a 31.3-inch screen can optionally be deployed from the ceiling.
Technically, the electric VLE uses an 800-volt architecture with a 115 kWh battery. In some markets, a lower-cost 80 kWh option will become available after launch. It can charge up to 300 kW on a DC fast charger or 11 kW via an AC charger and also supports bidirectional charging.
The VLE300, with a single front-mounted motor producing 268 hp, will launch first, followed by the dual-motor VLE400 with 409 hp. The WLTP range estimate for the VLE300 is 700 kilometers, while the dual-motor version’s range has not yet been disclosed.
The 2028 model-year VLE is expected to go on sale in the U.S. next year, with more details to follow, including pricing and potential expansion to other global markets.
Photo: Mercedes-Benz. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
