Mercedes has unveiled at the Shanghai Motor Show the Vision V concept that foreshadows the future Mercedes VLS, built on the new VAN.EA scalable electric architecture.
Mercedes has announced that the future van range built on the dedicated VAN.EA electric platform will include two models:
– Mercedes VLE positioned in the business segment
– Mercedes VLS positioned in the luxury segment
Mercedes unveiled at the Shanghai Motor Show the Vision V concept that prefigures the future Mercedes VLS luxury van. As seen from the first photos, the Mercedes VLS will feature very short overhangs and a compact front end to maximize interior space. The wide center pillar better separates the lounge area from the driver’s area and the black rear pillar gives the feeling of spaciousness to the passenger area. The sides have a particularly narrow waistline and the chrome-plated window surrounds underlines the perfect balance between elegance and dynamism.
The closed, chrome-plated radiator grille features three horizontally illuminated glass louvers. The radiator grille is flanked by headlamps which have the iconic shape of the three-pointed Mercedes star. At the rear, the large rear window is framed by over 450 three-dimensional illuminated louvers which serve as taillights and brake lights.
The Vision V has a sporty look conferred by two pronounced power domes on the short bonnet, which extend into the cockpit, as well as large wheel arches to accommodate the huge 24-inch wheels that benefit from illuminated louvers.
Ultra-luxurious interior
Access to the rear is via a generous sliding door on the right-hand side, and the rear space named Private Lounge is separated from the driver’s area by a glass wall whose opacity can be varied in full or in sections.
The power-adjustable rear seats offer a comfort typical of first-class airplane seats, and one of the highlights of the Private Lounge is the 65-inch screen with a split function under the floor that’s operated by the touchpad on the center console. Once passengers board and close the doors it glides up as if by magic from a console designed with burr wood and Nappa leather. The 65-inch screen has 4K resolution and is combined with a surround sound system with 42 loudspeakers and Dolby Atmos.
The center console between the two individual seats is also designed as a display cabinet. It has a touchpad for operating the infotainment system as well as a fold-out table. When extended, the table appears as a high-quality chessboard – a further homage to the beauty and elegance of traditional craftsmanship. The center console automatically adjusts to the respective seating position for maximum comfort.
The dashboard is inspired by the new CLA with the Superscreen display that includes three screens and extends from pillar to pillar.