Mercedes-Benz is expanding its new electric VLE lineup with the introduction of the VLE 400 4MATIC, an all-wheel-drive electric luxury vehicle with 310 kW of system power, up to 654 km of WLTP range and a towing capacity of up to 2.5 tonnes.
Positioned by Mercedes-Benz as an electric Grand Limousine rather than a conventional van, the VLE 400 4MATIC adds a second electric motor to the rear axle, bringing improved acceleration, traction and towing capability compared with the previously introduced VLE 300.
The new model starts at €78,452 in Germany for the five-seat configuration and €78,909 for the six-seat version. Both prices include German VAT.
Mercedes VLE 400 4MATIC Gets 310 kW and AWD
The VLE 400 4MATIC uses the same 115-kWh usable NMC battery found across the VLE range, but adds an electric motor at the rear axle to create an all-wheel-drive powertrain.
Total system output reaches 310 kW, allowing the electric VLE to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.5 seconds. Mercedes says the additional traction provided by the 4MATIC system also improves handling and stability, particularly in difficult road and weather conditions.
The extra motor does come with a range penalty. While the front-wheel-drive VLE 300 can travel up to 713 km under the WLTP test cycle, the VLE 400 4MATIC is rated for up to 654 km.
That still gives the larger electric vehicle a substantial driving range for long-distance travel.
800-Volt Charging Delivers Up to 300 kW
The VLE’s 115-kWh battery is supported by an 800-volt electrical architecture, allowing DC fast charging at up to 300 kW.
Under ideal charging conditions, Mercedes-Benz says the battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in around 25 minutes. A 15-minute charging session can add up to approximately 355 km of range.
The VLE 400 4MATIC therefore retains the same high-speed charging capabilities as the front-wheel-drive version despite its additional electric motor.
Towing Capacity Jumps to 2.5 Tonnes
One of the biggest advantages of the new VLE 400 4MATIC is its improved towing capability.
The all-wheel-drive model can tow a trailer weighing up to 2.5 tonnes, compared with 1.75 tonnes for the previous configuration. Its maximum unbraked trailer capacity is 750 kg, while the maximum nose weight remains 100 kg.
That makes the VLE 400 4MATIC considerably more practical for buyers who need an electric vehicle capable of towing a caravan, boat trailer or other heavy equipment.
The combination of a large battery, long-range capability and 2.5-tonne towing capacity gives the VLE a broader range of potential uses than many large electric passenger vehicles.
Mercedes Expands VLE Equipment and Seating Options
Mercedes-Benz has also been expanding the VLE lineup beyond the introduction of the new AWD model.
The VLE 300 can now be ordered with additional equipment and trim combinations, including AMG Line and AMG Line Plus versions. Buyers can also choose from a wider range of individual options and seating configurations.
The latest addition is the Advanced package, joining the existing Advanced Plus, Premium and Premium Plus packages.
Among its features are optional black high-gloss 19-inch alloy wheels with a five-twin-spoke design and darkened rear windows.
Mercedes has also made its equipment combinations more flexible. For example, the VLE Exclusive can now be combined with either the Premium or Premium Plus package.
The Premium Plus package adds features including a head-up display and the MBUX Superscreen, while the Sky View panoramic roof is now available as an individual option rather than being restricted to certain starting configurations.
VLE Can Now Seat Up to Eight
Mercedes-Benz is also expanding the VLE’s interior configuration options.
Since July, buyers have been able to order electrically adjustable premium comfort seats for the rear, including armrests and seat heating. The VLE 300 can also be configured with eight seats for the first time.
As a result, the VLE lineup now offers seating configurations ranging from five to eight occupants, depending on the selected version and equipment.
The flexibility further reinforces Mercedes-Benz’s strategy of positioning the VLE as a premium electric people mover capable of serving both luxury and practical family transportation needs.
Mercedes VLE 400 4MATIC Price
In Germany, the new Mercedes VLE 400 4MATIC starts at:
– Five seats: €78,452
– Six seats: €78,909
– VLE 300: from €70,735
All quoted prices are gross prices for the German market.
With its 310 kW output, 654 km WLTP range, 300-kW DC charging and 2.5-tonne towing capacity, the Mercedes VLE 400 4MATIC adds a more capable option to the company’s growing electric luxury lineup.
The combination of long-range capability, fast charging, all-wheel drive and flexible seating could make the VLE 400 4MATIC particularly appealing to buyers looking for an electric vehicle that can handle both premium passenger transportation and demanding long-distance use.
