Mercedes Tests 2028 VLE Electric Luxury Van in Spain With 435-Mile Range, Eyeing $100,000 US Buyers
Updated
Updated · InsideEVs · Jun 19
Mercedes Tests 2028 VLE Electric Luxury Van in Spain With 435-Mile Range, Eyeing $100,000 US Buyers
3 articles · Updated · InsideEVs · Jun 19
Summary
Mercedes used a Spain first drive to preview the VLE ahead of its 2028 U.S. launch, pitching a fully electric luxury van at Americans despite the segment’s weak image there.
A 435-mile WLTP range, flat-floor dedicated EV platform and quieter, more rigid body are central to that bet, with Mercedes tuning the van for rear-seat comfort and road-trip use.
U.S.-bound versions are expected to include a panoramic roof, Burmester audio and triple-screen MBUX, while higher trims add king’s chairs and removable rail-mounted seating.
The review found the second row to be the standout—quiet, plush and premium—while noting van-like driving dynamics, some infotainment quirks and soft suspension that can hit bump stops.
Pricing near $100,000 for a well-equipped model could be the biggest hurdle as Mercedes tries to create a new ultra-luxury electric van niche in the U.S.