- Mercedes-Benz VLE completed a 1090km journey with just two 15-minute charging stops.
- The test showed the real-world, long-distance efficiency of the new Van Electric Architecture.
- Rear-axle steering enhanced agility and handling on Alpine passes and narrow urban streets.
Mercedes-Benz has put its upcoming VLE luxury people mover through a gruelling real-world test, covering nearly 1100km from Stuttgart to Rome with only two quick charging stops - each just 15 minutes long.
The result? A compelling demonstration of the efficiency and everyday practicality promised by the brand’s next-generation Van Electric Architecture.
Rome in a day?
The route wasn’t exactly a Sunday drive. The VLE tackled a mix of challenging Alpine passes, long autobahn stretches, and Italy’s famously narrow urban streets.
Despite the demanding terrain, both test vehicles completed the 1090km trip in roughly 13 hours. Outside temperatures ranged from a chilly 11°C at the start to a balmy 33°C on arrival, but cabin comfort remained constant thanks to climate control set at 22°C throughout.
Notably, the VLE’s rear-axle steering made light work of hairpins and tight corners - a feature that promises to ease the stress of city driving and mountain getaways alike.
Efficient electric
Mercedes-Benz is using tests like this to validate the maturity of its electric people movers before production kicks off. The VLE’s performance forms part of a broader programme that has seen prototypes endure cold-weather testing in Sweden and long-distance hauls to places as far-flung as Norway’s North Cape.
“With just two short charging stops from Stuttgart to the Alps to Rome - the Mercedes-Benz VLE demonstrates impressive efficiency of the new Van Electric Architecture,” said Dr. Andreas Zygan, Head of Development Mercedes-Benz Vans.
What’s next for the VLE?
Set to debut in 2026, the VLE will form part of Mercedes-Benz’s new modular Van Architecture, underpinning both commercial transporters and premium people-movers dubbed Grand Limousines.
The VLE itself will offer up to eight seats and is designed to suit families, adventurers, or even VIP shuttle services.
While Mercedes-Benz has confirmed all-electric midsize luxury models will be sold in markets like North America and China, the company has not disclosed local launch details or exact power outputs in kilowatts.
That said, the VLE is meant to be a direct successor to the V-Class people mover, which was once sold here, so there's hope yet.
For now, the Stuttgart-to-Rome run suggests Mercedes’ electric future is already charging ahead.
