Don’t think of the Mercedes-Benz Vision V as just another van. True, it has the tall roof and the sliding doors but the German automaker intends to create an entirely new segment with the all-electric concept vehicle – and the production model set to soon follow. Think of it as your “private lounge.” Headlight.News has more.
In its concept form, the Mercedes-Benz Vision V is an ultra-luxurious limousine, though there’ll be a number of other variants to follow.
Is the van market ready for a comeback? We’ve seen some intriguing new prototypes in recent months meant to redefine the people-mover segment, such as the quirky Kia PV5. Now, Mercedes-Benz intends to take things to a new level with the luxurious Vision V concept – and the production version soon to follow.
Think of the all-electric Vision V as a “private lounge,” the German automaker said as it formally revealed the show car after months of careful teases. Its over-the-top interior features a retractable 65-inch cinema screen, a surround-sound system with 42 speakers, and seven projectors for what it describes as “a next-level digital experience.”
But the Vision V concept is just one of a variety of different variants Mercedes suggests it will offer based on its new VAN.EA, a Van Electric Architecture. They’ll run from “luxurious family vehicles” to “exclusive VIP and high-end limousine transport(s).”
What is it?
The Mercedes-Benz Vision V features an assortment of screens, a 42-speaker sound system and more.
Don’t try to compare the Vision V – or the production models to follow – with the old Mercedes V-Class vans. To start with, this concept reveals what’s set to come in all-electric form, based on what Mercedes says is a “flexible architecture.” In other words, the skateboard-like platform can be sculpted into a variety of heights, widths and lengths.
They can come with various powertrain configurations with one or more electric motors and battery packs of different capacity.
While we’ll have to wait for the launch of production models for more specific details, Mercedes said in a statement that, “The future model portfolio will cater to a range of customer needs offering a versatile, spacious vehicle designed to provide exceptional space and comfort.”
A private lounge
Electrically adjustable tubular seat in the Mercedes-Benz Vision V concept look like they’ve been pulled from an art gallery.
This concept model shows just how far the automaker might take things, targeting a highly affluent customer who wants their own mobile party space.
Among its high-tech features, there’s a switchable glass partition that can, with the touch of a button, be switched “from transparent to opaque, either completely or in sections.” There’s a 65-inch high-def video screen, as well as seven projectors. And sound comes out of 42 different speakers driven by a Dolby Atmos audio system.
There’s “a touchpad for operating the infotainment system and a fold-out table that, when extended, transforms into a valuable chessboard – an homage to the timeless beauty and artistry of traditional craftsmanship,” noted Mercedes, adding that, “For ultimate convenience, the center console automatically adjusts to the respective seating position.
The fold-flat rear seats look like they might have been lifted from a sci-fi flick or, if you prefer, the Museum of Modern Art. Of course, there are plenty of more traditional luxury touches, as well, such as open-pore burr wood and white silk fabric. Dark wood trim is framed by polished aluminum strips.
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“Elevated cockpit technology”
The cockpit of the Mercedes-Benz Vision V.
Mercedes’ product team didn’t forget the driver.
The front seats in the Vision V carry over the design found in the rear of the Vision V concept, with “with shiny polished aluminum clasps securing the individual cushion tubes.” They can be electrically adjusted in a variety of ways to ensure driver comfort over long trips.
Similar to what is offered on today’s EQS sedan and SUV models, the electric van offers a “superscreen,” really three separate digital displays stretching from pillar to pillar.
Adjustable ambient lighting helps create the appropriate mood, whether ready to party or get down to work.
Exterior design
The Mercedes-Benz Vision V concept picks up on classic brand touches but adds new details.
As you’d expect of a modern EV, Mercedes designers put a premium on aerodynamics to maximize the range and performance to the Vision V concept – a design expected to largely carry over into production versions.
The use of a skateboard-style platform, with motors and battery pack tucked largely under the load floor permit unusually short front an rear overhangs, repurposing space for class-above cabin space.
Designers also put a premium on lighting, using LEDs visible from every angle, including light strips that accent key features on the van’s nose.
A new take on the Mercedes chrome grille features three horizontal glass louvres, while 200 light elements surround its frame. Another 190 illuminated louvres accent details like the side of the headlights. And there are another 450 three-dimensional louvres wrapping around the rear window. Even the 24-inch wheels get lit detailing.
Hundreds of illuminated louvres accent the face of the Mercedes-Benz Vision V concept.
Availability and pricing
How much of the Vision V show car will carry over into production remains to be seen. We can expect to see retail models tone down the exterior lightning and some of the interior frills, most likely.
But Mercedes clearly plans to deliver a broad range of electric people-movers going forward, and that suggests we could see top-end packages targeting those who might otherwise buy the brand’s most lavish Maybach models, along with more affordable trims for upscale families.
The automaker suggests we will see the production version of the new van family begin to roll out sometime in 2026.
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