At the Japan Mobility Show 2025, we had an experience with the Mercedes Vision V, a large electric van concept that previews how the company plans to direct its future production vehicles for this segment in markets including the U.S.
It rides on the upcoming Van Electric Architecture (VAN.EA), which will underpin future electric vans and minivans starting in 2026 with the Mercedes VLE.
1. Like a private lounge
The Vision V is not a van in the traditional sense. A wide power door and low step give access to a quiet, sealed-off lounge. The cabin is divided from the driver by a glass wall that turns opaque at the touch of a button.
Inside are two large seats that recline almost flat, a movable center console, and soft lighting that gives it an atmosphere similar to a business-class pod.
2. Top-class craftsmanship
The interior is constructed with white Nappa leather, open-pore wood, and aluminum accents, but it’s not minimalist like an EQS. The layout is closer to a furnished room than a car cabin, with built-in side cabinets, visible speaker mounts, and a console that includes a touchpad and fold-out table.
Understandably, as this is a concept vehicle, the approach is more about hand-finished detail and spatial comfort, but expect production models to feel more spartan.
3. Gets a 65-inch screen
A large 65-inch 4K display rises from the floor once the doors shut. It’s not a gimmick as it divides the space and becomes the visual focal point. The display supports video, gaming, or even ambient landscapes in relaxation mode.
Combined with a 42-speaker Dolby Atmos setup, it feels like sitting in a luxury cinema rather than a moving vehicle, somewhat similar to the experience we had in the Li Auto Mega. We’re not sure if the 65-inch screen will make it to production, but it hints at how Mercedes plans to utilize digital immersion as a new kind of luxury.
4. Has production intent
The Vision V’s exterior follows current Mercedes design cues, but its proportions are lower and more aerodynamic than any van the company has built.
For the first time, Mercedes-Benz will offer all-electric midsize luxury vehicles in the U.S., Canada and China (Grand Limousines).
From Mercedes-Benz’s announcement in July 2025
The illuminated grille and 24-inch wheels look conceptual, yet the short overhangs, closed-off grille, and smooth bodywork suggest that many parts of this shape will translate into future models. Even if 80 percent of the design makes it to the production line, it would mean that Mercedes has managed to make a van shape appear genuinely sleek.
5. On the Mercedes VLE
The Vision V is backed by working prototypes. Mercedes’ VLE test vehicles recently completed a 1,090 km (677 miles) drive from Stuttgart to Rome with only two 15-minute charging stops.
The trip covered mountain passes and city streets, validating both efficiency and thermal management. Production models based on the VAN.EA platform, the Mercedes VLE and Mercedes VLS, will be introduced starting in 2026. Mercedes confirmed they’re planned for markets including the U.S., Canada, and China.
International Automotive News Editor since 2014, covering global motor shows, industry events, and test-driving various vehicles, with a focus on hybrid and electric cars in recent years.
