Mercedes-Benz VLE Electric Van Demonstrates Impressive Long-Range Capability in European Road Test
Key Insights
Mercedes-Benz's VLE electric van successfully completed a 684-mile journey from Stuttgart to Rome, demonstrating significant long-range capability with minimal charging stops.
The VLE MPV, built on the new 800-volt VAN.EA platform, required only two 15-minute charging breaks over a 13-hour trip, indicating a real-world range of 250-300 miles.
This rigorous real-world testing across diverse terrains validates the VLE's suitability for everyday use and its robust performance in varying environmental conditions.
Set for launch in 2026 in key global markets, the eight-passenger VLE aims to redefine luxury electric travel for families and high-end shuttle services.
Mercedes-Benz’s new VLE electric multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) recently completed a rigorous 684-mile (1,100-km) journey from Stuttgart to Rome, showcasing impressive efficiency and long-range capability for the luxury electric travel segment. The test vehicle, part of the company's comprehensive real-world validation process, required just two 15-minute charging breaks over the 13-hour trip, signaling a significant advancement in electric van technology and market readiness.
This extensive road test, which saw the VLE navigate diverse terrains from narrow Italian city streets to challenging Alpine mountain passes, highlights the robustness of Mercedes-Benz's next-generation Van Electric Architecture (VAN.EA). Despite external temperatures fluctuating between 11 °C and 33 °C (52 and 91 °F), the cabin maintained a consistent 22 °C (72 °F), underscoring the thermal management system's efficiency. The observed performance suggests a real-world range in the ballpark of 250 to 300 miles (400 to 480 km) on a single charge, though official figures are pending.
“Our future MPVs have once again impressively demonstrated their suitability for everyday use,” stated Andreas Zygan, head of development for Mercedes-Benz Vans. This validation builds upon prior cold-weather assessments in Sweden and endurance runs to the North Cape, ensuring the VLE's preparedness for a wide array of global driving conditions. The modular and scalable VAN.EA platform, unveiled late last year, is an 800-volt EV architecture specifically engineered for medium- and large-sized vans. It features 4MATIC all-wheel drive, promising extended driving ranges and reliable performance across all weather conditions.
Designed to accommodate up to eight passengers, the VLE is primarily aimed at family and leisure travel, as well as high-end shuttle services. A key innovation is its rear-axle steering, which significantly enhances maneuverability in urban environments and on winding roads, a crucial feature for a vehicle of its size. Beyond the VLE, the versatile VAN.EA platform is expected to underpin several specialized variants, including an all-electric version of the popular Marco Polo camper.
Mercedes-Benz plans to introduce these all-electric ‘Grand Limousines’ to key markets, including the United States, Canada, and China, starting in 2026. Until then, the company will continue its intensive real-world testing program in and around Stuttgart and other demanding environments, solidifying the VLE's position as a formidable contender in the evolving electric luxury van market.