Automotive
Experienced by Kimatni D. Rawlins
Welcome to Venice Beach, CA, for the momentous unveiling of Mercedes-Benz’s (M-B) pre-production Vision V, which sets the stage for a new era of luxury, elite limousine service. The all-electric MPV or multi-purpose vehicle caters to VIP customers looking for versatile and voluminous mobility, delivering technology, entertainment, and relaxation.
In typical premiere fashion, the brand team at M-B chose the City of Angels to unveil the stately van, which is fitting for celebrities arriving on red carpets, corporate executives conducting routine business, or a band of friends heading to an NFL or baseball game. Ralph Wagenknecht, communications lead for M-B Vans and a tactical genius, was on hand to provide deeper context on the need for a new segment in the automotive consumer segment. He discussed the excitement of commingling extensive space, immersive digital experiences, and exclusivity for customers.
The Vision V is styled elegantly with dynamic proportions to ensure that you arrive at your destinations with grace and satisfaction. It remains to be seen what the final production versions –VLE and VLS—will look like, but if the concept is any indication, then anticipate prominence once again from M-B when the pair hits the North American market in 2026. China and Europe have already received the luxury vans as gasoline variants. M-B can now go worldwide with the new Van Electric Architecture. We can easily see the Vision V as the requisite mode of transportation for the heroes in Apple TV’s Foundation as they voyage to rebuild civilization and save humanity.
Customers can choose a 4×2 or 4×4 4MATIC layout featuring rear-axle steering for ultimate maneuverability. Some of the Vision V’s tailored highlights include an illuminated three-pointed Mercedes star, dual power dome hood extensions that protrude into the cockpit, elegant 24” illuminated wheels, and 168 solar panels affixed to the roof to generate extra range or to help power elements such as heating and cooling. A light show is put on by the 200 LED elements that frame the grille, 190 LEDs that border the side headlights, and the 450 LEDs outlining the large rear window. I was also enthused by the digital welcome screen on the B-pillar that highlighted my name.
It’s one thing to admire the van from the outside, but the private lounge inside will exceed all imaginative expectations. Here, you will experience home entertainment features like the impressive 65-inch retractable 4K cinema screen that deploys from the floor, seven interactive digital experiences, whether gaming or shopping, a 42-speaker Dolby Atmos surround-sound system, a chessboard, a digital fireplace, and much more. Ralph played F1 The Movie as I reclined in the 1st-class seats with a zero gravity Relaxation Mode. The viewing was far better than any movie theatre showing!
The Vision V’s Crystal white Nappa leather, shimmering white silk theme, and omnipresent ambient lighting add a touch of warmth and coziness to your atmosphere. Similar to a limousine, an intelligent glass partition separates the “Private Lounge” from the cockpit. Lastly, the windows can be changed to opaque to maintain privacy.
Expect a 300-mile range from the battery-powered powertrain. Distinctive and luxurious, the zero-emissions Vision V is the next in line to receive Mercedes-Benz’s magic touch for creating next-level vans.
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