Mercedes-Benz previews two electric minivans

Mercedes-Benz has shared some images from testing its upcoming VLE minivan. The description states that a pair of pre-production EVs were running a challenging long-distance route from Stuttgart, Germany to Rome, Italy through the Alps. Sales of both the VLE and its upmarket counterpart called the VLS are expected to begin in 2026.

The two MPVs managed to cover 1,090 km (677 miles) in 13 hours. They only stopped twice for recharging, and only for 15 minutes in each case. They had to contend with high-elevation mountain passes, long speedways, arteries with dense traffic and winding city streets. Temperatures ranged from +11 to +33 ºC (+52…+72 ºF), and air conditioners were running all the time.

The company claims that both electric vans are quite ready to tackle long journeys – they are agile, easy to steer and have excellent power efficiency. Thermal regulation, regenerative braking, 800V power internals and other state-of-the-art technologies ensure that these EVs get enough range no matter the conditions. For a bit of extra maneuverability, both come equipped with rear-wheel steering.

These images are all we have thus far. The minivans are camouflaged and possibly also overlaid with fake body panels. The lights could also be fake at this early stage leading to the production.

Mercedes says the VLE will be offered in a variety of configurations from eight-seater to business shuttle. In turn, the VLS will be a particularly comfortable “grand limo” of sorts, something like an S-Class among minivans.