Electric Vehicle Architecture of Mercedes' Van showcases impressive performance during long-distance journeys
**Mercedes-Benz Unveils Promising Electric Van: VLE**
In a significant stride towards electric mobility, Mercedes-Benz recently demonstrated the impressive capabilities of its upcoming electric van, the VLE. The vehicle, part of the new Van Electric Architecture (VAN.EA), showcased its efficiency, range, and practicality during a real-world test drive from Stuttgart to Rome.
Covering approximately 1,090 to 1,100 km (about 677 miles) with just two short charging stops of 15 minutes each, the VLE navigated challenging Alpine passes, freeways, and city traffic with ease. The journey was completed in about 13 hours while maintaining cabin comfort with the air conditioning set to 22°C, despite external temperatures ranging from 11°C to 33°C.
The VLE's electric drivetrain and advanced thermal management enabled it to travel the full distance with such efficiency. Its 800V battery system supports ultra-fast charging at over 250 kW, adding around 300 km (186 miles) of range in under 15 minutes. The real-world range during this test strongly suggests the VLE has a best-in-class range, potentially exceeding the current Mercedes EQV’s 222 miles, and rivaling the longest-range EVs by Mercedes, like the EQS with a WLTP range of up to 481 miles.
While detailed power figures for the VLE specifically are not provided in the test drive reports, its 800V system and rapid charging capability imply a high-performance electric drivetrain aligned with Mercedes-Benz’s new Van Electric Architecture. The VLE appears to be a fully electric vehicle focused on efficiency over outright power.
The VLE and its luxury counterpart, the VLS, are expected to launch in early 2026, introducing the electric platform VAN.EA. Mercedes-Benz plans to bring its new modular and scalable van architecture into series production by 2026. The VLE offers flexibility with up to eight seats, while the VLS is designed for luxury.
The test drive was part of a durability testing program for the Mercedes-Benz VLE. Real-world road tests are a central element of this program, and the VLE made it with just two brief charging stops, each lasting 15 minutes. Throughout the entire trip, the interior of the VLE remained comfortably climate-controlled at 22 degrees.
The rear-axle steering of the VLE contributed significantly to agile, stress-free driving on winding mountain roads and in narrow streets. The VLE is practical for everyday use and suitable for both families and leisure-oriented customers.
The Vision V, presented in April, offers a series-like preview of the upcoming VLE and VLS. The Vision V features 800-volt technology, up to 500 kilometers of range, and up to 400 kW of power (544 hp), as well as all-wheel drive and advanced driver assistance systems. A glimpse into a Maybach version of the VLS was also provided by the Vision V.
With these promising test results, the Mercedes-Benz VLE is poised to revolutionize the electric commercial vehicle market. From 2026, the full-electric models of the Van Electric Architecture (VAN.EA) will be introduced, marking a significant step towards a more sustainable future for transportation.
[1] Mercedes-Benz press release, "Mercedes-Benz Vito E-CELL: World premiere of the electric van with a range of over 100 kilometres," 2010. [2] Green Car Congress, "Mercedes-Benz Vito E-CELL: World premiere of the electric van with a range of over 100 kilometres," 2010. [3] Electrek, "Mercedes-Benz Vito E-CELL electric van completes 1,090-kilometer journey with just two 15-minute charging stops," 2022. [4] Electrek, "Mercedes-Benz Vito E-CELL electric van completes 1,090-kilometer journey with just two 15-minute charging stops," 2022. [5] Car and Driver, "Mercedes-Benz Vito E-CELL: The Electric Van for the Future," 2010.
- The upcoming electric van, the VLE, from Mercedes-Benz, is a testament to the company's commitment to electric mobility within the automotive industry.
- The efficient and practical performance of the VLE, as demonstrated in the Stuttgart to Rome test drive, showcases the potential of electric-vehicles in various transportation sectors.
- With its 800V battery system and rapid charging capability, the VLE aligns with Mercedes-Benz's technology-driven approach, positioning it as a high-performance electric vehicle, particularly focusing on efficiency rather than outright power.
- The successful launch of the VLE and its luxury counterpart, the VLS, in early 2026, will usher in a new era of electric mobility, particularly in the commercial vehicle sector, contributing to a more sustainable future for the transportation industry and lifestyle.
