Mercedes has unveiled its Vision V concept at the Shanghai motor show, offering a glimpse into the future of luxury electric people carriers.
The concept previews the brand’s flagship electric van built on the new scalable Van Electric Architecture (VAN.EA). This platform will support an entire range of V-Class EVs – from family MPVs to high-end VIP shuttles and ultra-luxury private transport.
Set to compete with the Volvo EM90, Lexus LM and LEVC L380, the Vision V focuses on creating what Mercedes calls “generous space with maximum exclusivity and an unprecedented immersive, digital experience.”
A massive 65-inch 4K screen rises from a burr wood cabinet, separating passengers from the driver. This cinema-like experience is enhanced by a 42-speaker Dolby Atmos sound system with in-seat “exciters.”
The entertainment system includes gaming controllers, split-screen functionality, and even a karaoke mode.
Passengers can switch the rear windows from clear to opaque for privacy. Seven projectors can transform these windows into a 360-degree video display.
The rear “private lounge” features two airline-style reclining seats with tubular cushion design, polished aluminum frames, and white Nappa leather and silk upholstery.
Between the seats, a center console doubles as a display cabinet and houses a fold-out chess board. Sideboard-style “display cabinets” made of burr wood run along the van’s sides, providing storage for personal items.
For the driver, the Vision V includes the same full-width Superscreen that will feature in the upcoming CLA EV, offering customizable layouts and real-time surroundings display.
The exterior showcases Mercedes’ evolving design language with an enormous illuminated grille, angular front air splitter, and multi-segment lights. Illuminated louvres highlight the 24-inch alloy wheels, while at the rear, a continuous taillight array frames the large glass panel.
While technical specifications for the VAN.EA platform remain limited, Mercedes has confirmed it will use 800V architecture for ultra-rapid charging and can accommodate both two- and four-wheel-drive powertrains.
“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.
