Mercedes unveiled the VLE electric minivan (46 photos)
The German brand's lineup has expanded with a new family of electric minivans. VLE stands for V-Class Luxury Electric. This large battery-powered minivan, with a retro-inspired grille, even in its standard short-wheelbase version, has dimensions similar to the Cadillac Escalade, measuring 5309 x 1999 x 1943 mm. The long-wheelbase version even measures 5484 mm. 
Despite its considerable size, the VLE is far from clumsy, as the rear-wheel steering (up to 7 degrees) provides a turning circle of 10.9 meters, comparable to the compact CLA sedan. In defiance of new requirements in the Chinese car market, the VLE's sliding electric doors are equipped with retractable electric handles.
Currently, customers are offered a choice of two powertrain options. The base VLE 300 is equipped with a 272-horsepower engine on the front axle, while the VLE 400 4MATIC has two engines producing 409 hp. and 0-62 mph in 6.5 seconds. The 115 kWh battery, coupled with an 800-volt architecture, allows for a 355 km range in 15 minutes at stations with a capacity of over 300 kW. Later, the model will be available with a more affordable 80 kWh battery.
AIRMATIC air suspension with adjustable ground clearance is standard. A towing capacity of up to 2,500 kg allows for towing a camper or motorboat.
The VLE's interior is designed for maximum comfort for 6-8 passengers. The MBUX Superscreen system consists of three screens: a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and two 14-inch touchscreens for in-cabin functions and entertainment. Rear passengers are treated to a retractable 31.3-inch panoramic screen with 8K resolution.
The list of comfort options includes a premium Burmester 3D audio system with 22 speakers and Dolby Atmos support, a panoramic Sky View glass roof with ambient lighting, an Air Balance fragrance system, and Grand Comfort massage seats with smartphone control.
Autopilot isn't forgotten either. The MB.Drive Assist Pro driver assistant, with 12 ultrasonic sensors, 10 cameras, and 5 radars, allows you to rely on its autonomous driving capabilities both on highways and in the city.
The company positions the Mercedes-Benz VLE not as a run-of-the-mill passenger van, but as a luxurious and comfortable minivan, so don't expect it to sell for the €50,000 that standard V-Classes sell for in Europe. The exact price, as well as the sales start date, will likely be announced in the coming months.
Mercedes-Benz VLE 300 Exclusive long 
Mercedes-Benz VLE 300 
[thumb]https://cn22.nevsedoma.com.ua/p/29/2937/102_files/mb-vle--- 07.webp[/thumb] 
Mercedes-Benz VLE 400 4MATIC AMG Line Plus 
Mercedes-Benz VLE 400 4MATIC AMG Line Plus 
[thumb]https://cn22.nevsedoma.com.ua/p/29/2937/102_files/mb-vle-- -40.webp[/thumb] 
Mercedes-Benz VLE 300 Exclusive 
