
Mercedes VLE drives from Stuttgart to Rome with just 30 minutes’ charging
Mercedes-Benz has shared the first images of its new VLE as the electric people carrier completed a 1,090km (677-mile) testing run.
The VLE is the first in a range of new electric vehicles due from the German manufacturer based on its VAN.EA architecture. Mercedes says the modular and scalable platform will allow for clearer differentiation between its passenger- and commercial-focused vans.
The VLE is expected to arrive next year as a dedicated eight-seat people carrier – or Grand Limousine in Mercedes-speak – to replace the current EQV. While it is aimed at families, leisure enthusiasts and VIP corporate passenger transport, a more luxurious VLS will share its underpinnings. Previewed earlier this year by the Vision V concept, Mercedes says this will create its own segment of ultra-luxurious private transport with airline-style seating and immersive entertainment systems.
The two MPVs are expected to be joined by other variants including a Marco Polo camper, all based on the new VAN.EA platform.

The new images of the VLE show this new 800V platform being put to the test on a 1,090km (677-mile), 13-hour drive from Mercedes’ development campus in Stuttgart to Rome, crossing the Alps en route.
While Mercedes is still to reveal technical specifications for the VLE, it completed the entire route with just two 15-minute charging stops. That suggests a real-world range in the region of 250 to 300 miles and charging power of at least 320kW.
Mercedes said the test took in winding and steep mountain passes, high-speed motorways and urban driving and its engineers drove in “normal” fashion to reflect real-world use and its everyday efficiency. Temperatures along the route varied from 11 degrees to 33, and the MPV’s climate control was set to a steady 22 throughout the drive. The city centre roads of Rome were used to test the new platform’s rear-wheel-steering capability, intended to make it easier to manoeuvre the large van in tight urban settings.
Dr. Andreas Zygan, head of development at Mercedes-Benz Vans, commented: “Our future MPVs have once again impressively demonstrated their suitability for everyday use on the long-distance route. With just two short charging stops from Stuttgart to the Alps to Rome – the Mercedes‑Benz VLE demonstrates impressive efficiency of the new Van Electric Architecture.”