Words: Andrew Sluys
Published 11 March 2026
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the new VLE, which blends electric power with minivan practicality and S-Class luxury.
Starting on the outside, the VLE is quite an upright-looking minivan, but despite this, it still achieves a drag coefficient of just 0.25.
It also gets a very futuristic front end with Mercedes’ new grille, and the star motif in the headlights.
Mercedes hasn’t released the dimensions of this VLE yet, but has confirmed that it will be available in short or long-wheelbase configurations.
As is the case with most minivans, the interior is where the magic happens, and this VLE seems to have a lot of magic.
With levels of luxury taken from the S-Class, the VLE offers seatin for up to eight people, a digital cockpit with the MBUX superscreen, a panoramic sunroof, a 31-inch rear display, and electronically controlled rear seats.
There are also retractable windows within the sliding doors, and ambient lighting throughout the entire cabin.
The 31-inch screen at the rear actually folds down from the roof, and can support up to 8K resolution. There’s also a 22-speaker Burmeister sound system to support it.
The seating configuration is customisable, with the front seats able to be turned around, or all the seats removed entirely.
As for power, the VLE will be sold in single and dual motor configurations. The faster one will be able to hit 100km/h in 6.4-seconds.
Mercedes also claims a WLTP range rating of over 700km from the 115kWh battery that powers the VLE.
Beneath the VLE is an air suspension system that should ensure a comfortable ride no matter the surface.
Mercedes has announced this VLE will be available late 2026 in international markets, although New Zealand availability is yet to be confirmed.
It will also be joined by a VLS at a later date, which will likely up the luxury factor, and be a lot more expensive.
