Standard V-Class too common? Mercedes-Benz Vans has revealed its new Vision V concept, a show car that seemingly previews the firm’s upcoming VLS flagship…
Mercedes-Benz Vans has revealed its new Vision V, a concept it says “provides a glimpse” of an upcoming “top-end” derivative. From what we understand, the eventual production model will wear the VLS badge, seeing it positioned higher than the current range-topping version of the V-Class.
The Stuttgart-based automaker says its latest modular Van Electric Architecture (VAN.EA) will “usher in a new era starting in 2026”. This upcoming portfolio will range from “practical, entry-segment family vehicles and exclusive VIP shuttles to luxurious limousines with an enormous amount of space”.
According to Mercedes‑Benz Vans, this expansion at the top-end of its model portfolio will create “a unique segment of its own”. And the Vision V show car – seen here on 24-inch wheels boasting illuminated louvres – is our first glimpse of the ultra-luxurious vans to come.
Mercedes‑Benz Vans says the concept combines “generous space with maximum exclusivity and an unprecedented immersive, digital experience”. Billed as a chauffeur-driven limousine, the model blends “analogue craftsmanship” with an “immersive user experience”.
“The Vision V is the beginning of a new era for Mercedes‑Benz Vans. It demonstrates, in the truest sense of the word, how we bring luxury to a spacious cabin and define a new segment. With that, we set standards in design, comfort and an immersive user experience – while meeting the highest demands of our customers,” said Thomas Klein, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans.
So, let’s take a look at the details. The concept – which is effectively a 4-seater – features a large, automatically opening door on the right-hand side as well as an illuminated, retractable running board. Meanwhile, a “switchable” glass wall separates the “private lounge” area from the cockpit.
The concept’s rear seating area features crystal white Nappa leather and shimmering white silk, contrasting with swathes of open-pore burr wood. Display cabinets are set into the dark wood trim along the walls and are framed by polished aluminium trim. These cabinets provide storage space, while a game controller and 1 of the sound system’s 42 loudspeakers are also integrated here.
Additional speakers are mounted in round glass enclosures on handmade brackets. The centre console between the 2 individual seats doubles as a display cabinet and features a touchpad for operating the infotainment system as well as a fold-out table (the latter appearing as a “high-quality chessboard”).
Mercedes-Benz Vans says the electrically adjustable “first-class seats are reminiscent of elegant lounge chairs” and are mounted on polished aluminium bases. The seats can be reclined into what the brand describes as a “comfortable flat position”. Meanwhile, the extensive ambient lighting system comprises strip lighting and a ceiling lamp.
The so-called “private lounge” seating area furthermore features a retractable 65-inch cinema screen (with split-screen functions and 4K resolution). Stored under the floor when not in use, the screen can be set to automatically glide up when the doors are closed.
In addition, as many as 7 projectors in the headliner and floor expand the field of vision, with the side windows becoming additional “screens” to create a full 360-degree digital experience. The German company hasn’t neglected the front occupants either; the cockpit features a so-called “Superscreen” comprising 3 displays, extending from pillar to pillar.
For now, the Stuttgart-based firm has released no official information on the concept’s fully electric powertrain. However, we expect more details of the production Mercedes-Benz VLS (and also the VLE, we believe) to be released in the coming months…
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