Mercedes-Benz VLE
Production of the first VLE prototype begins
In preparation for full-scale mass production of the VLE, production of the initial prototype vehicle has begun at the Vitoria plant in Spain.
Production of the first prototype of Mercedes-Benz’s new fully electric MPV, the VLE, has begun at the Vitoria plant in Spain. At the Vitoria plant, various preparations and verifications are being carried out to ensure the quality required by Mercedes-Benz, with full-scale mass production scheduled to begin in early 2026.
The VLE, which will be launched as the successor to the EQV, was developed based on Mercedes-Benz Vans’ proprietary fully electric platform, VAN.EA (Mercedes-Benz Van Electric Architecture).
The VLE is a model that combines the driving performance of a limousine with the versatility of an MPV. It is optimized to meet the needs of modern customers in terms of design, interior comfort, and everyday usability. Accommodating up to eight people, it is suitable for a wide range of uses, from daily use by families to a high-quality shuttle minibus. It offers a versatile and maximally flexible living space for any occasion.
Modernizing factories to accommodate VLE production
In preparation for the production of the VLE, Mercedes-Benz has modernized its Vitoria plant.
The Vitoria plant has been completely modernized to accommodate the production of the first vehicles with a modular architecture that can accommodate a variety of sizes and applications, and the facility is already 90% complete for the mass production of VLEs.
More than 160 training programs have been implemented for employees, with around 5,000 employees at the Vitoria plant being trained in new production processes, procedures and materials, with cooperation from other plants. Thomas Klein, head of Mercedes-Benz Vans, explained the VLE as follows:
“The new VLE is the first vehicle in our newly developed, highly flexible, modular van architecture. Mercedes-Benz Vans has now taken the VLE from the initial concept stage to series production in record time.”
“Throughout the entire development process, we have implemented innovative digital processes and achieved significant efficiency gains. Our employees, working in cross-functional and cross-border teams, are setting new standards in this field. The results will be presented in the first half of 2026.”
Producing different powertrains on the same line
The Vitoria plant is making major investments to prepare for the production of the VLE, with models equipped with different powertrains being manufactured on the same line.
From 2026, the Vitoria plant will produce the fully electric VLE, as well as the passenger V-Class and the Vito/eVito commercial vans, in a fully flexible manner depending on demand. The VLE will be integrated into the existing production line at the Vitoria plant, initially as an electric vehicle and, in the future, also as a modern ICE-powered vehicle. This will allow vehicles with different drivetrains to be produced on the same assembly line.
In response, all production processes have been thoroughly reviewed and reformed in terms of digitalization, flexibility, efficiency and sustainability. Mercedes-Benz has made major investments in the Vitoria plant, building a new, state-of-the-art body shop and paint shop, and has also significantly modernized the assembly hall while maintaining the existing production lines.
The new VLE’s production run will see the use of artificial intelligence, digital tools and cutting-edge manufacturing processes, including the creation of a digital twin of the production process. The Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS) will also be used for the first time in a series-produced van.
Mercedes-Benz Vans has achieved carbon neutrality at all locations in its production network and has been using all its electricity from renewable sources since 2013. In addition, the Vitoria plant has installed a solar power system that generates green electricity, uses geothermal energy to heat buildings, and also utilizes waste heat from the vehicle painting process.
