Mercedes is updating a discreet yet important model in its mainstream lineup: the Classe V. For its shift to electric power, the passenger van aimed at premium transport is now called the VLE. Here are the prices for the new generation of the vehicle that shuttle services and chauffeured fleets favor.
Two powertrains
For this generation, the VLE moves away from the utilitarian image. The Classe V and Viano could not fully hide their link to the Vito commercial van. It’s less obvious with the electric VLE, which actually offers two strong motor options.
In fact, the entry-level VLE 300 already delivers 276 horsepower with a 115 kWh battery, yielding up to 678 km of range (about 421 miles), a very good result for a vehicle with van-like dimensions. The VLE 400 4MATIC adds a second motor for all-wheel drive and 415 horsepower. It uses the same 115 kWh battery for an overall range of 644 km (about 400 miles).
No need to fear long trips, as it features an 800-volt architecture enabling ultra-fast charging. Mercedes claims up to 355 km of range recovered in just 15 minutes (roughly 220 miles in 15 minutes).
A lineup built around four finishes
The new Mercedes VLE comes in four trims: Standard, AMG Line, AMG Line Plus, and EXCLUSIVE. The German automaker is placing a strong emphasis on broad customization, with four equipment packs and numerous options that can substantially elevate the electric minivan’s standard equipment.
Regardless of the trim, the VLE seats up to eight people and focuses on modularity with multiple seating configurations. Mercedes notably offers the Roll & Go system, which lets you move or remove manual seats easily, as well as power seats that can be commanded remotely.
In addition to the four trims, Mercedes offers four optional equipment packs:
- Advanced Package: €1,794 pre-tax
- Advanced Plus Package: €3,884 pre-tax
- Premium Package: €7,318 pre-tax
- Premium Plus Package: €10,250 pre-tax
The options list also includes the Night Package, various alloy wheels ranging from 19 to 22 inches, and several features designed to boost comfort and the VLE’s upscale character.
Among the available features are the air suspension AIRMATIC, rear-steering wheels, the panoramic roof Sky View, the MBUX Superscreen system with up to three displays, a heads-up display with augmented navigation, and an impressive 31.3-inch 8K retractable rear screen.
Mercedes also offers Grand Confort seats with massage function, lumbar support, and wireless charging, along with a Burmester 3D audio system with 22 speakers. On the driver-assistance side, the VLE can be equipped with the latest MB.DRIVE technology, including lane-change assist and various automated parking functions.
The VLE 300 starts from €82,344 (about $89,600, using current rough exchange rates), while the VLE 400 4MATIC starts from €89,763 (roughly $97,800). It’s worth noting “from,” because the equipment list is so rich that the most fully loaded configurations can top well over €130,000 (about $141,000).
