Mercedes is readying the EQV replacement dubbed VLE

The Mercedes VLE is currently undergoing road tests ahead of its 2026 launch. Mercedes has been validating the van’s efficiency and performance. A run from Stuttgart to Rome, crossing the Alps, served as one of the most recent tests. The new electric van managed to travel from Stuttgart to Rome with two 15min rapid-charging stops.

The almost 1100km trip took 13 hours, and the engineers drove it normally on road with the cabin air conditioning set at 22deg C for the duration. That suggests a real-world range of up to 480km from its 116kWh battery, although an official figure has not yet been revealed.

The VLE is the first of several new Mercedes electric vans that will arrive next year. They’re part of a new-look V-Class range. 

The newcomers will be much more focused electric propositions than EQV, which is based on the Vito van. VLA vans will have an 800v electrical system, and fast charging capabilities, likely up to 320kW. Single-motor and dual-motor AWD options are likely. The tester was a single-motor variant with rear-wheel steering. 

VLE is based on Mercedes’ new Van Electric Architecture (VAN.EA). There will be P for premium and C for commercial derivatives of the platform. Each will be permanently connected to the internet, allowing over the air updates. Level 2 and eventually level 3 autonomous drive will also be available.

Andreas Zygan, head of development for Mercedes-Benz Vans said that the trip showed the new van to be entirely suitable for everyday use.

Variants include an eight-seat MPV and an electric camper and there will be multiple applications, from commercial to luxury models. Mercedes is marketing this as a van equivalent to its E-Class saloon. The target market is large families and taxi firms.

Final styling will include elements of the Vision V Concept (below), with a Panamericana grille.

Above VLE there will be a VLS van which Mercedes calls a ‘grand limousine’. The German believes it will ‘define a unique segment of its own that bestows true greatness to automotive luxury’.