Mercedes-Benz has introduced the all-electric VLE, an eight-seat grand limousine featuring 800-volt charging, over 700 km of estimated WLTP range, and a flexible interior built on the automaker's new Van Architecture.
Mercedes-Benz has revealed the VLE, an all-electric grand limousine that combines the ride quality of a traditional luxury sedan with multi-purpose vehicle versatility. Built on the automaker's new Van Architecture and powered by its MB.OS operating system, the VLE seats up to eight and offers more than 700 kilometers (WLTP) of estimated range through 800-volt charging technology and a 115-kWh NMC battery.
Highlights
800-volt architecture enables up to 355 km (WLTP) of range recovery in 15 minutes via DC fast charging at more than 300 kW.
Two powertrain options at launch: VLE 300 (203 kW, rear-drive) and VLE 400 4MATIC (305 kW, all-wheel drive, 0–60 mph in 6.4 seconds).
Flexible seating for up to eight with remotely configurable electric seats, removable Roll & Go manual seats, and a retractable 31.3-inch 8K rear entertainment screen.
AIRMATIC air suspension with 1.5 inches of level control and seven-degree rear-axle steering, achieving a 35.75-foot turning circle
Powertrain and Charging.
The VLE launches globally with the rear-drive VLE 300, which produces 203 kW. The range-topping VLE 400 4MATIC follows with 305 kW and all-wheel drive via a Disconnect Unit (DCU) that activates the rear motor only when additional power or traction is needed. Mercedes-Benz said this is the first time the DCU has been introduced in this segment.
Both variants use a permanently excited synchronous machine (PSM) with silicon-carbide inverters, delivering 93 percent battery-to-wheel efficiency over long distances. The 115-kWh NMC battery supports 800-volt fast charging. An optional DC converter also enables compatibility with 400-volt charging stations.
Mercedes-Benz noted the VLE can access its High-Powered Charging network with an integrated reservation function at select stations in Germany and the U.S.
Interior and Seating Flexibility
The VLE supports six to eight seats across up to three rows, with multiple configuration options. Two rear individual seat types are available: a Premium Comfort Seat (electric) and a Grand Comfort Seat with wireless charging, lumbar support, massage, and calf support.
Manually operated seats use the Roll & Go system - four integrated wheels allow seats to be repositioned, locked in any position, or removed entirely. Electrically adjustable seats can be reconfigured remotely via the infotainment system, side-wall controls, or the Mercedes-Benz app through a feature called Remote Variable Rear Space. Four preset modes are available: Baggage, Executive, People & Baggage, and Standard.
A Sky View panoramic roof extends from the B-pillar to the rear, paired with surround ambient lighting and electric sunshades throughout.