Mercedes' Concept EQV can transport 8 passengers with its 249 mile range

The premium van is more about moving people than goods.

A single passenger EV is a good way to reduce your carbon footprint. But if you really want to make a difference, you go with a vehicle that transports a lot of humans around. That's what Mercedes is doing with its Concept EQV. a high-end van for moving lots of folks at once.

The van has an expected range of 249 miles via a 100kWh battery pack and has all the trappings of a premium transporter. Mercedes says it can be configured to handle up to eight passengers and is configurable for families or high-end clients. Plus, it can be set up to haul equipment.

Like all new Mercedes-Benz vehicles, the Concept EQV will have the voice-centric MBUX infotainment system. Also, it'll probably have the automaker's driver's assist suite once it goes into production.

While today's vehicle looks currently represent the automaker's EQ concept, the automaker will be showing off a more production ready van at the Frankfurt auto show in September this year.

Mercedes-Benz will finally introduce an all-electric minivan to the United States in 2026, with the successor to the all-electric EQV made available to American customers for the first time.

Company officials told WardsAuto that the third-generation minivan will return to the US as the V-Class, dropping the EQV name used in European markets. The new model will be underpinned by the upcoming VAN.EA platform, which is modular and scalable, allowing Mercedes to base myriad vans of different shapes and sizes on the same architecture.

Like the new V-Class, these commercial and luxury vans will arrive in 2026 and offer customers a wide range of options at different price points. According to the report, the third-generation V-Class will have single and dual motor setups, two different battery sizes, and a choice of rear- or all-wheel drive. Customers will also be able to choose from various seating configurations.

CarBuzz has reached out to Mercedes-Benz for confirmation and additional information and will update the article once we receive a reply.

First introduced in 2013, the Mercedes-Benz V-Class recently received its second facelift to keep it feeling fresh. Sales remain strong in Europe and Asia, where buyers demand premium minivans. While the styling updates were kept to a minimum, the interior benefitted from drastic styling updates, MBUX, and other technologies.

The closest thing America had to the V-Class was the Metris Passenger Van, discontinued due to slow sales and a lack of demand. More commercial in its approach, it will be interesting to see whether the automaker can appeal to US consumers with the next-generation electric van, which will undoubtedly be more upmarket than the Metris.

Interestingly, the current V-Class will soldier on with diesel and gasoline power until the end of the decade, receiving extra updates between then and now. US-market models will be built at the automaker's facility in Vitoria, Spain.

Mercedes' VAN.EA architecture has what Mercedes refers to as 'blocks.' There are three of these so-called blocks, with the first block identical in all vans, regardless of size or cost. This segment will contain the front axle and the electric drivetrain, while the second block will determine the length and size of the cabin or cargo area. In the final block, you'll find another electric motor.

The new V-Class will be based on the VAN.EA-P platform (P is for privately positioned). Vehicles underpinned by this architecture will be aimed at private customers, VIPs, and high-end hotels. Mercedes has said it aims for an electric range of 310 miles and Level 2 self-driving technology. Impressively, we could even see Level 3 autonomous driving used in certain parts of the USA in S-Class and EQS models.

For now, Mercedes customers wanting a spacious and luxurious family hauler have to settle for the GLS-Class. It's also worth noting the German automaker has launched an all-electric eSprinter commercial van.

Mercedes-Benz ushers in a new era with the all-new electric VLE, reimagining what defines modern luxury in a grand limousine. Powered by the advanced Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), it delivers a smart, seamless driving experience. The VLE brings together the best of both worlds: the smooth, refined ride of a limousine with the roomy, adaptable interior of a multi-purpose vehicle. With its efficiency, new 800-volt technology and high-performance charging capability, the VLE is built for every journey.

Its design is as impressive as the extraordinary spatial experience, elevating the familiar "Welcome home." feeling of a Mercedes-Benz to an entirely new level. The VLE redefines comfort and versatility for up to eight passengers, pairing generous space with an unparalleled digital experience and superior ride quality. The new AIRMATIC air suspension with level control turns every journey into a remarkably serene experience, while the rear-axle steering enhances agility - enabling the VLE to navigate narrow spaces and parking garages with ease.

"The all-new electric VLE marks the next significant milestone in our successful 140-year automotive history. Shaped by our pioneering spirit, it redefines the notion of space and comfort and adds a game-changing level of versatility and innovation. It also offers a class-leading range of more than 700 km. VLE is the first model to be built on the new Van Architecture, designed to meet a wide range of customer needs and adapt to any lifestyle."Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management, Mercedes-Benz Group AG

10 Reasons the New VLE Redefines the Grand Limousine

Innovative aesthetics that captivate: The new Mercedes-Benz VLE embodies a completely new design with a low, streamlined silhouette and iconic aesthetics resulting in outstanding aerodynamics, with a drag coefficient of just 0.25.

Highly flexible seating for up to eight people - manual Roll & Go or remote "seat ballet": The manually operated seats feature four integrated wheels and can be effortlessly moved back and forth, locked in any position, or easily removed and rolled into the garage. The electrically adjustable seats expand flexibility even further allowing repositioning via app and head unit, almost like choreographing a ballet (Remote Variable Rear Space).

Newly developed seats - choose your style and comfort level: The new mechanical and electrical individual seats and benches can be configured in multiple different ways. The highlight of the three seat types is an electric Grand Comfort Seat with an additional pillow, wireless charging, lumbar support, massage function and calf support.

Unparalleled MBUX rear space experience - turn every journey into an immersive adventure: Hidden in the headliner above the front seats is a retractable, 31.3-inch panoramic screen with 8K resolution, split-screen function and an eight-megapixel camera - perfect for enjoying a movie, music videos, and games or for joining business video conferences.

Superior ride - agile and comfortable like a true premium limousine: AIRMATIC air suspension with 1.5 inches of level control makes every journey a remarkably serene experience. And with seven-degree rear-axle steering, the VLE is exceptionally agile and achieves an impressive turning circle of just 35.75 feet

More than 700 kilometers WLTP range - long-distance comfort without range anxiety: On long journeys the VLE can be recharged for a range of up to 355 kilometers (WLTP) within just 15 minutes, thanks to 800-volt technology and a new battery with a usable energy content of 115 kWh.

Extraordinary interior experience - Sky View panoramic roof: The impressive glass roof conveys a remarkable sense of space, freedom and tranquility. Surround ambient lighting invites the passengers to sit back and unwind. An electric sunblind protects against excessive sunlight.

Top-notch digital intelligence - the Mercedes-Benz VLE makes your driving experience smarter and personalized: Thanks to the AI-powered Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), the VLE features the latest MBUX with intuitive and personal control. It also features the MBUX Virtual Assistant, which uses multi-agent generative AI and understands complex conversations with memory, responding like a friend. Over-the-air updates keep the VLE up to date for years, adding new features without the customer ever having to visit a dealer.

Digital cockpit - MBUX Superscreen: Three screens behind a large glass surface: a 10.25-inch driver display, a 14-inch central display, and a 14-inch screen for the front passenger. While the driver benefits from clear, focused information, the front passenger can enjoy a personalized entertainment experience - such as video streaming, gaming or apps.

Lane changing and steering made effortless - MB.DRIVE: Distance Assist DISTRONIC and MB.DRIVE ASSIST adds semi-autonomous steering on motorways and a revolutionary Lane Change Assist. Just engage the turn signal and let the grand limousine handle it from there.

As Surprising as Life Itself: The VLE Is a True Shapeshifter

The new grand limousine adapts effortlessly to a wide range of needs and lifestyles. Its design, finish, functionality, and driving comfort can all be customized to an individual's preferences. The VLE stands out with its broad model lineup, diverse variants, and personalized configurations VLE portfolio ranges from exclusive VIP shuttles to luxurious limousines with an enormous amount of space in line with different customer requirements.

The VLE has an electric sliding door on either side with HANDS-FREE Access, making it especially helpful in narrow spaces. The sliding doors feature a fully retractable window to ensure an ample supply of fresh air. Just as practical as the doors is the separately opening rear window, which makes loading and unloading particularly convenient.

Reliable all-rounder: whether in the urban jungle or out in the great outdoors, the stylish VLE is ideal for leisure enthusiasts who need flexible space and want to reach their destinations effortlessly, even in light off-pavement conditions. Optimal propulsion and maximum traction are ensured by the powerful electric drive unit with up to 305 kW and 4MATIC all-wheel drive.

Exclusive shuttle: featuring modern elegance paired with an immersive spatial experience, the VLE meets premium expectations. Up to eight seats are available across three full-size rows. Multiple configurations and trim levels are possible. Two standard electric sliding doors ensure comfortable entry and exit on either side.

Inside, rear passengers are treated to an exceptional MBUX Rear Space Experience. A seamlessly integrated, retractable, 31.3-inch; ratio 32:9 panoramic screen with split-screen function, 8K resolution and an integrated eight-megapixel camera transforms the interior into a fascinating experiential world - for entertainment or productive work including videoconferencing.

"The all-new VLE marks the beginning of a new era for Mercedes-Benz. It brings everything our customers know and love to a new level. Combining MPV-like versatility with limousine-like driving comfort and an immersive spatial experience, it's unlike any other vehicle with up to eight seats. The electric VLE will delight customers worldwide because it's as diverse as they are." Thomas Klein, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans

New Era of Distinctive Design

The new Van Architecture enables a completely new iconic design that timelessly unites form and function. This results in outstanding aerodynamics, with a cd value of 0.25. The front overhang gives the VLE adequate status, while the tautly stretched roofline flows into the smoothly rounded rear. This streamlined silhouette signifies power and dynamic lightness, making the VLE a statement of desire.

Bold presence: iconic grille and striking light signature at front and rear

Two pronounced power domes on the hood reinforce the bold appearance. The front is characterized by a reinterpreted, brand-defining grille. Depending on the equipment line, it features an illuminated frame, a seamless light strip linking the headlights, star-shaped daytime running lights with DIGITAL LIGHT and a standing star on the hood or an integrated central star. A standout feature at the rear of the vehicle is its arc-shaped taillights, which are integrated into the aerodynamic spoiler lip. The light strip frames the rear like an inverted U and integrates all light functions, creating an unmistakable light signature that instantly catches the eye.

Extraordinary interior: Sky View panoramic roof, ambient lighting and a unique wraparound effect

Just as impressive as the exterior is the extraordinary interior experience in the Mercedes-Benz VLE, which elevates the "Welcome home." feeling of a Mercedes-Benz to a new level. The grand limousine comes with an impressive Sky View panoramic roof. This one-piece fixed-glass roof extends seamlessly from the B-pillar to the rear and conveys an unprecedented sense of space and freedom as well as security and tranquility. Like all the rear windows, including the separately opening rear window, it features an electric sunshade while surround ambient lighting showcases the glass roof in striking fashion.

Ambient lighting plays a central role throughout the VLE, all the way from the cockpit to the third row of seats. As part of the overall interior design, it embraces all occupants. Together with the stylish, furniture-inspired interior design including numerous individualization options, this creates a unique wraparound effect.

Unmatched Comfort and Versatility: Tailored to Every Taste and Need

The comfort experience begins the moment you get in. The VLE has an electric sliding door on either side with HANDS-FREE Access, so passengers can get in and out quickly and safely without having to walk around the vehicle and without the driver having to turn around. This is especially helpful in narrow spaces. The sliding doors feature fully retractable windows and intelligent stopping mechanism. When the sensors detect obstacles, the doors immediately stop closing to prevent injuries. Just as practical as the doors is the separately opening rear window with its own cargo area access - perfect for the charging cable and for tight parking spaces where there isn't enough room to open the larger tailgate. As an option, the electric EASY-PACK tailgate is available.

Room for all: more versatility than ever before

The Mercedes-Benz VLE is the epitome of versatility and comfort. The seating concept offers unprecedented flexibility to suit every taste and need. Anything from six to eight seats is possible, combined and configured in multiple different ways. Customers can choose from two newly developed individual seat types in the rear: Premium Comfort Seat (electric), and Grand Comfort Seat, the latter with an additional pillow, wireless charging, lumbar support with a massage function and calf support (electric). Flexible folding tables further enhance the comfort for the rear passengers. Besides individual seats, there are also a three-seater comfort benches available (electrical).

Perfect climate comfort: a pleasant temperature shortly after getting in

Whether it's 100-degree Fahrenheit in Dubai or 15-degree Fahrenheit in New York - the VLE maintains a comfortable climate all year round, anywhere in the world. Three climate control systems ensure pleasant temperatures within just a few minutes, even in the rear of the grand limousine.

Flexible seating: Roll & Go with one hand or orchestrate "seat ballet" via remote control

The new Roll & Go concept offers a convenient way to move and remove the manually operated seats. Customers can move and fold the seats and benches forward and backward with minimal effort, then lock them in place in any position. They are also removable in any position, enabling customers to quickly and easily create a cargo space to suit their specific requirements. When removed, the seats can easily be rolled into the garage on their integrated four wheels.

An especially convenient feature that is unique in this segment is the ability to remotely configure the seating. Thanks to MB.OS, the electrically adjustable rear seats and bench can be moved via the infotainment system, the seat control buttons in the side wall panels or via the Mercedes-Benz App through the "Remote Variable Rear Space" feature, redefining the intelligent use of space. There are four pre-defined configurations:

• "Baggage" mode moves all seats forward as far as possible to maximize cargo space - great for shopping or stowing sports gear.
• "Executive" moves the seats as far back as possible to maximize legroom in the first rear seating row - perfect for VIP transfers.
• "People & Baggage" is a well-balanced configuration that ensures ample luggage space and comfortable legroom in both rear rows - as enjoyed by passengers in the E-Class.
• "Standard" mode moves all seats back to the standard position.

Depending on the specification selected, the VLE equipped with three seating rows provides a generous volume of up to 28 cu-ft. Final product specifications and market-specific details are subject to confirmation closer to launch.

Countless customization options: a wide range of lines, packages and even different center consoles

A wide range of packages and options enable customers to refine the interior and the exterior to their individual preferences and lifestyles. The spectrum ranges from various lines to several equipment packages and numerous individual options.

Globally, customers can also choose from different center consoles. The compact console beneath the instrument panel offers one or two wireless charging pads for mobile devices as well as seamlessly integrated cupholders. This also provides unobstructed access to the rear. A longer center console is also available. It comes with two wireless charging pads, a stowage compartment beneath the classic butterfly lids and a lower open storage shelf suitable for items such as a large handbag. Another variant offers two temperature-controlled stowage compartments (cooled or heated), UV disinfection, AIR-BALANCE fragrance generator, two wireless charging options, ambient lighting and elegant trim elements.

Superior Ride: Agility and Long-Distance Comfort of a True Premium Limousine

Globally, the first model to roll out is the VLE 300 electric followed by the VLE 400 4MATIC electric with a convincing range of more than 700 kilometers (WLTP), the VLE 300 electric with 203 kW perfectly handles long-range journeys.

Eventually, the VLE 400 4MATIC electric with 305 kW will be the top-of-the-range performance version; it sprints from 0 to 60 mph just 6.4 seconds. Both models feature a new NMC battery technology with a usable energy capacity of 115 kWh.

800-volt technology: a quick coffee break is all it takes to recharge up to 355 kilometers of range (WLTP)

The 800-volt technology maximizes efficiency and performance and can significantly reduce charging time in conjunction with the new battery generation. The VLE can recharge up to 355 kilometers (WLTP) of range in just 15 minutes. Fast DC charging is also possible with more than 300 kW while an optional DC converter enables charging at 400-volt fast-charging stations. Thanks to the integrated reservation function for Mercedes-Benz charging stations as part of Mercedes-Benz High-Powered Charging network, a seamless and intuitive experience is guaranteed.

Electric drive units: intelligent power with 93 percent efficiency

The electric drive unit features a permanently excited synchronous machine (PSM) at the front delivering a battery-to-wheel efficiency of 93 percent over long distances. All-wheel-drive models also feature a powerful electric motor at the rear. It is activated only when additional power or traction is needed, depending on the driving situation or program. This function is handled by the Disconnect Unit (DCU), which Mercedes-Benz is introducing to this segment for the first time. For maximum energy efficiency, both drive units use high-performance power electronics with silicon-carbide inverters.

Acoustic and vibrational comfort: exceptionally smooth and quiet

As a true flagship limousine, the Mercedes-Benz VLE delivers outstanding acoustic comfort. Its exceptionally rigid body structure provides a solid foundation, while extensive sound insulation runs from front to rear. Decoupled elastomer mounts between the suspension and body, along with an isolated drivetrain, further reduces vibration and noise for an impressively quiet ride.

AIRMATIC with intelligent damping and level control: only floating would be smoother

The new AIRMATIC with intelligent suspension control makes every journey a remarkably serene experience. The new air suspension is also more intelligent when it comes to ride-height control. For the first time, it uses Google Maps data to keep the vehicle as low as possible for as long as possible, reducing aerodynamic drag and thus energy consumption. With the AIRMATIC air suspension, the vehicle's ride height can be raised and lowered by 1.5 inches for increased ground clearance or ease of entry.

Rear-axle steering: more agility and a remarkably small turning circle

With rear-axle steering and the associated more direct steering ratio on the front axle, the VLE is particularly agile but also stable. The steering angle of the rear axle is seven degrees. This reduces the curb-to-curb turning circle to 35.75 feet (wall-to-wall turning circle: 38 feet). This gives the VLE a turning circle comparable with the new Mercedes-Benz CLA. In addition, thanks to the more direct steering ratio, the driver needs fewer turns of the steering wheel to make a full turn.

Exceptionally Smart: Top-Notch Digital Experience

The company's in-house, AI-powered MB.OS takes the Mercedes-Benz experience to a whole new level. It powers every domain - from assistance to infotainment to driving performance. It connects all systems in one intelligent ecosystem and serves as the brains for MB.DRIVE, parking assistance systems and MBUX. Linked to the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud, it enables over-the-air updates for numerous vehicle functions, keeping the VLE up to date and future-ready.

MB.DRIVE: advanced driving and parking assistance systems

The VLE offers extensive safety and assistance systems such as Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Lane Change Assist, Collision Prevention Maneuvering and a rear-view camera. Every vehicle is equipped with a comprehensive sensor set with 10 cameras, five radar sensors and 12 ultrasonic sensors for state-of-the-art driving assistance. They are all connected to a water-cooled high-performance computer with sufficient power reserves for future functions and regular over-the-air updates. Depending on the package, MB.DRIVE assists the driver with cooperative steering, braking, accelerating and parking. Pioneering assistance functions will include, for example, MB.DRIVE ASSIST PRO.

The grand limousine has been developed from scratch with comprehensive state-of-the-art safety features. The driver assistance systems can help prevent a wide range of accidents. With PRE-SAFE®, Mercedes-Benz vehicles can react to dangers before an accident occurs. However, should an accident occur, the crumple zones, the exceptionally rigid passenger cell and restraint systems can help to keep the consequences of an accident as low as possible. These include up to 11 airbags as well as adjustable head restraints and seat belts with belt tensioners and force limiters, which are also found in the rear at all outer seats.

MBUX Superscreen: clear information for the driver and individual entertainment for the front passenger

The cockpit in the VLE offers a top-level digital experience. The optional, visually floating MBUX Superscreen with three displays extends across the entire width of the interior. Behind a large glass surface is a 10.25-inch driver display, 14-inch central display and an additional 14-inch screen for the front passenger (optional). While the driver benefits from clear, focused information, the front passenger can enjoy a personalized entertainment experience such as video streaming, gaming or apps. If no passenger display is installed, a star pattern adds a refined visual touch in its place. The MBUX Superscreen is powered by state-of-the-art high-performance microprocessors and displays real-time graphics from the Unity Game Engine. Another extra is the head-up display with augmented navigation. The driver sees a virtual 23.1-inch image that appears to float approximately 13-feet in front of the vehicle, providing the most important driving information in direct line of sight.

MBUX Rear Space Experience: the grand space becomes a cinema, gaming hub or office

The Mercedes-Benz VLE indulges its passengers with an exceptional MBUX Rear Space Experience. Hidden in the headliner above the driver and front passenger is a retractable, 31.3-inch panoramic screen with a split-screen function. For example, just say, "Hey Mercedes, start the cinema experience" - the screen glides out of its compartment as the electric power seats move into a comfortable position and the window shades close. Once fully activated, the screen transforms the interior into a personal retreat that can serve as a movie or gaming hub, a concert hall, a mobile office or a space to simply unwind.

With its 8K resolution, the panoramic screen delivers videos and games with outstanding clarity and detail. The Burmester® 3D Surround Sound System elevates the experience with rich, high-quality audio, offering a total of 22 loudspeakers and uses Dolby Atmos technology to turn music listening into an immersive audio experience. An integrated eight-megapixel camera brings a more personal touch to video calls, including those made through the "Meetings for Teams" app.

The continuously growing Mercedes-Benz infotainment portfolio offers more than 40 apps. These include music streaming, videoconferencing, video streaming platforms such as Disney+ and RIDEVU from Sony Pictures Entertainment and video games. To enjoy the best in-car gaming experience, customers can use their Bluetooth gaming controller or mobile phone.

Latest MBUX: exceptionally intuitive and personalized with artificial intelligence

The Mercedes-Benz VLE features the fourth-generation MBUX powered by MB.OS equipped with artificial intelligence from ChatGPT and Microsoft Bing as well as Google Gemini, combining multiple AI agents in one system. With this technology, the new MBUX Virtual Assistant revolutionizes the relationship between the vehicle and the passengers in every seat. Customers experience a more intuitive and personal digital companion powered by generative AI, capable of natural, friend-like conversations and short-term memory. The MBUX Virtual Assistant appears as a living avatar on the MBUX Zero Layer, featuring dynamic colors and animations.

Intelligent navigation based on Google Maps

The navigation experience in the VLE is based on Google Maps, developed as part of the partnership between Google and Mercedes-Benz, and is one of the first integrations of Google Cloud's new Automotive AI Agent for in-vehicle conversation services with Google Maps. Mercedes-Benz Navigation with Electric Intelligence maps out the quickest and most convenient route, including charging stops, based on a variety of factors. Integrated visual communication also reaches a new dimension with MBUX Surround Navigation. It seamlessly integrates the driver-assistance view with a 3D representation of the surroundings and route guidance in real-time on the driver display. Drivers benefit from improved situational awareness, seeing what the VLE sees and the support of various assistance systems support.