Mercedes-Benz prepares VLE production in China

Mercedes-Benz is preparing to manufacture its new electric VLE in China after launching production in Spain in June. Homologation documents reveal two versions with up to 305 kW, both using NMC batteries with cells from the CATL-Benz joint venture.

Mercedes-Benz plans two powertrain variants for China. The VLE 300 uses a ZF-supplied EM0047 electric motor on the front axle with a peak output of 200 kW and rated output of 120 kW. The vehicle reaches a top speed of 210 kph.

The VLE 400 adds a ZF EM0048 motor on the rear axle for all-wheel drive. The rear motor contributes 105 kW of peak power and 50 kW of rated output, bringing combined peak system output to 305 kW. It also has a top speed of 210 kph.

Both versions use ternary NMC batteries. The cells come from the CATL-Benz joint venture, with Fujian CATL responsible for assembling the battery packs. Battery capacity and range figures for the Chinese models have not yet been disclosed.

The Chinese version of the Mercedes-Benz VLE has appeared in documents filed with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), revealing technical specifications ahead of local production. The electric MPV will be built by Fujian Benz, the joint venture between Mercedes-Benz, BAIC and Fujian Motor Industry that also manufactures the V-Class and Vito.

The homologation documents also list three staggered tyre combinations ranging from 19 to 21 inches. Equipment includes rear sliding doors, a large panoramic roof and a surround-view camera system. Both the approach and departure angles are 16 degrees, while the luggage compartment has a depth of 550 millimetres.

Mercedes-Benz already started series production of the VLE at its Vitoria plant in Spain in June 2026. As previously reported, it is the first production model based on the company’s new VAN.EA electric van platform. The European model uses an 800-volt electrical architecture and supports DC charging at up to 300 kW. Mercedes-Benz quotes a range of around 700 kilometres and says 15 minutes of charging can add up to 355 kilometres of WLTP range. Combined with a total range of around 700 kilometres, the company says the VLE can theoretically cover 1,000 kilometres with a single 15-minute charging stop.

Mercedes-Benz Vans unveiled the VLE, the successor to the EQV, in March. The company opened order books for the premium electric van in April, initially without offering customers a test drive. In Europe, prices currently start at €82,260, although Mercedes plans to add more affordable variants priced at around €70,000.

Mercedes-Benz has not yet announced official retail prices for the locally produced VLE in China.