Latest news with #AndreasZygan
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Official pics: Mercedes priming VLE as radical EQV replacement
Mercedes-Benz is putting the finishing touches to the VLE, the first in a new wave of electric vans that will arrive next year as part of a new-look V-Class range. It is based on Mercedes' new Van Electric Architecture ( and will be a more focused proposition than the existing V-Class, which is based on the Vito van. Essentially a van equivalent to the E-Class saloon, it will be positioned under the more opulent VLS that Mercedes refers to as a 'grand limousine', and instead target large families and taxi firms. The VLE is currently being tested ahead of its launch, which is expected to take place next year. Much of the work has focused on validating the van's efficiency and performance, with the most recent test – a run from Stuttgart in Germany to Rome in Italy, crossing the Alps – investigating its endurance. Mercedes said its test engineers drove according to 'normal operation' on the road and the cabin was air conditioned to 22deg C for the entire route. The vehicle completed the drive in 13 hours, stopping twice – for 15min at a time – to recharge. Given the total route is 683 miles long, that points to a real-world range of around 250 to 300 miles, although Mercedes has yet to disclose an official figure. 'Our future MPVs have once again impressively demonstrated their suitability for everyday use,' said Andreas Zygan, head of development for Mercedes-Benz Vans. In addition to eight-seat MPVs, the VLE is also expected to spawn various specialised versions, such as an electric counterpart to the Marco Polo camper. ]]>
Miami Herald
03-07-2025
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
Mercedes Teases Upscale VLE Van For America
Minivans don't have a great reputation in the United States, but this has everything to do with their lack of cool factor and very little to do with their actual suitability as family vehicles. In regions like China, minivans have a much better image, with many luxurious minivans used by wealthier people to get around comfortably. For the small percentage of Americans who want a more polished minivan, Mercedes has just teased the new VLE electric van undergoing long-distance testing in Europe. It also mentioned a new VLS, and both will be marketed as "privately positioned MPVs" or "Grand Limousines". While only the VLE was teased, Mercedes-Benz made it clear that the two upcoming vans will occupy different segments. The VLE is expected to be a practical people-mover with seating for up to eight people, so is expected to be a more premium alternative to minivans like the Honda Odyssey and Chrysler Pacifica. Less was said about the VLS, but the 'S' in the name hints at a spacious model that will have much more luxurious accommodations; think of it as the S-Class of vans. "The VLS will define a unique segment of its own that bestows true greatness to automotive luxury," said Mercedes. "For the first time, Mercedes-Benz will offer all-electric midsize luxury vehicles in the U.S., Canada, and China (Grand Limousines)." Both models will ride on the new scalable Van Architecture - also known as previewed last year - coming in 2026, which accommodates both luxury-focused Grand Limousines and more commercial-type vans. Considering the renewed interest in minivans in America, it looks like there is justification for the VLE and VLS to be sold here. Related: It's The Year 2000 Again As Minivans Soar In Popularity Two VLE test vehicles were tested over a distance of 683 miles, from Stuttgart to Rome. They only required two 15-minute charging stops to complete the journey. A mix of long highway stretches, packed rural roads, and cramped city streets tested the comfort and agility of the electric van, which is equipped with rear-axle steering to improve maneuverability. "Our future MPVs have once again impressively demonstrated their suitability for everyday use on the long-distance route," said Dr. Andreas Zygan, Head of Development at Mercedes-Benz Vans. "With just two short charging stops from Stuttgart to the Alps to Rome - the Mercedes-Benz VLE demonstrates the impressive efficiency of the new Van Electric Architecture." Related: Every minivan you can buy in America in 2025 The VLE was almost completely covered in a camo wrap, but the narrow greenhouse and high beltline give it a less utilitarian profile than the V-Class. Cut-outs in the rear body show that this model has practical sliding doors, so getting in and out in tight spots should be easier. Pricing will be key, but it's possible that the new VLE will be cross-shopped with the Volkswagen and even three-row electric SUVs such as the Kia EV9. The VLS, however, is unlikely to have any direct rivals. We expect more information to follow about these vans as we get closer to 2026. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
