Unlike the current EQV, built on the commercial Vito platform, the VLE has been developed from scratch on the new modular VAN.EA (Van Electric Architecture) platform. It is positioned as the equivalent of the E-Class in the MPV segment - spacious but not overly premium. The more expensive and luxurious version, the VLS, is referred to at Mercedes as a "grand limousine".
The new VLE is aimed at large families and taxi fleets. It is currently undergoing final road tests. One of the key check-ups is a trip from Stuttgart to Rome through the Alps, spanning 1100 kilometers. The journey took 13 hours, with two stops of 15 minutes each for charging. The cabin was kept cool at a comfortable 22 °C throughout. Mercedes has yet to announce the official range, but based on the distance and duration of the trip, it is estimated to be between 400 to 480 kilometers in real conditions.
In addition to the eight-seat passenger version, the VLE is expected to serve as the basis for multiple modifications - for example, a new generation electric camper Marco Polo.
Source: Mercedes-Benz