Mercedes VLE gains all-wheel drive and 310 kW
Mercedes is expanding its electric VLE lineup with the VLE 400 4MATIC. The new all-wheel-drive version combines two electric motors with a total output of 310 kW and starts at €78,452.04 in Germany for the five-seat version.
With six seats, the VLE 400 4MATIC costs at least €78,909. The stated prices include VAT and apply to Germany. Pricing structures, equipment and launch dates may differ in Austria and Switzerland.
VLE 300 and VLE 400 4MATIC compared
Mercedes is positioning the VLE not as a conventional electric van, but as a comfort-focused people carrier. The VLE 300 remains in the lineup as the less expensive version with greater range, while the VLE 400 4MATIC offers more power, traction and towing capacity.
| Specification | VLE 300 | VLE 400 4MATIC |
|---|---|---|
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
| Power | 203 kW | 310 kW |
| 0–100 km/h | 8.9 to 9.5 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Usable battery capacity | 115 kWh | 115 kWh |
| WLTP range | up to 713 km | up to 654 km |
| DC charging power | up to 300 kW | up to 300 kW |
| AC charging power | 11 or 22 kW | 11 or 22 kW |
| Towing capacity | up to 1,750 kg | up to 2,500 kg |
| Price in Germany | from €70,735 | from €78,452.04 |
The premium for all-wheel drive is therefore around €7,700. In return, the 0–100 km/h acceleration time is significantly shorter, while the maximum WLTP range falls by 59 km due to higher energy consumption.
800 volts and charging at up to 300 kW
Both drivetrain versions use an NMC battery with a usable capacity of 115 kWh. The 800-volt architecture enables DC charging at up to 300 kW. Under ideal conditions, the battery is expected to charge from 10% to 80% in 25 minutes.
According to Mercedes, up to 355 km of range can be added within 15 minutes. In practice, these figures depend on factors including battery temperature, state of charge, ambient temperature and the charging station’s output. Optional 22 kW AC charging can offer a genuine time advantage, particularly at suitably equipped company sites and public charging points.
More motor power does not change charging times: the VLE 400 4MATIC’s most important practical advantages are traction and towing capacity.
A 2.5-tonne towing capacity makes the difference
The additional electric motor on the rear axle does more than improve acceleration. Mercedes also promises more assured handling on wet, snowy or otherwise challenging roads.
Of particular relevance is the increased braked towing capacity of 2,500 kg. This makes the VLE 400 4MATIC suitable as a tow vehicle for larger caravans or heavy transport trailers. The maximum nose weight remains 100 kg.
By comparison, the VLE 300 can tow up to 1,750 kg with a braked trailer. Anyone who regularly travels with a heavy trailer will therefore gain significantly greater utility from the all-wheel-drive model. As with any electric car, however, higher energy consumption while towing will noticeably reduce real-world range.
More packages and flexible seating configurations
Alongside the new drivetrain, Mercedes is expanding the configuration options. In addition to Advanced Plus, Premium and Premium Plus, an Advanced package is now also available. Options include 19-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels and tinted rear windows.
The Premium Plus package includes features such as a head-up display and the MBUX Superscreen. The Sky View panoramic roof is now available separately as an option. Electrically adjustable and heated Premium Comfort seats for rear passengers are also part of the expanded range.
The VLE 300 is now available with between five and eight seats. The VLE 400 4MATIC initially comes with five or six seats, making it more suitable for customers who prioritize comfort and luggage space over the maximum passenger capacity.
Assessment: More expensive, but considerably more versatile
The VLE 300 remains the more sensible choice for maximum range and a lower starting price. The VLE 400 4MATIC primarily justifies its premium with more power, better traction and a towing capacity that is 750 kg higher.
With up to 654 km of WLTP range and fast 300 kW charging, the all-wheel-drive model remains competitive over long distances. Mercedes is therefore following the same consistent 800-volt strategy that also plays a central role in the updated Mercedes EQS 450+.
