Luxury vans offer a unique mobility experience and Mercedes-Benz is ready to bring these suites on wheels into a new era – meet the Mercedes-Benz Vision V concept. Based on the forthcoming Van Electric Architecture (VAN.EA) platform, set to make its market debut in 2026, the Vision V combines limousine-level comfort with MPV practicality, offering an experience that transcends conventional luxury van design.
New underpinnings: VAN.EA explained
The modular and scalable Van Electric Architecture (VAN.EA) will serve as the basis for a new generation of Mercedes-Benz vans. This flexible platform is designed to accommodate a wide range of models – from family-focused vehicles and VIP shuttles to high-end, chauffeur-driven limousines. The Vision V, unveiled as a show car, offers a preview of the top-tier variant in this upcoming portfolio, highlighting the brand’s direction toward elevated travel experiences.
The Vision V concept stands 5486mm long, 2100mm wide and 1892mm tall, with a wheelbase measuring 3530mm. That’s over 300mm longer than the currently available Mercedes-Benz EQV, and the body is wider too.
Vision V design philosophy: Where elegance meets utility
The silhouette of the Mercedes-Benz Vision V reflects a modern interpretation of the brand’s design language of “sensual purity”. With short overhangs, a low profile, and an elegantly stretched roofline, the vehicle combines aerodynamic efficiency with imposing presence. Distinctive elements such as chrome accents, illuminated glass louvres, and 24-inch wheels with integrated lighting reinforce the vehicle’s luxury credentials.
The front end features a reinterpretation of the traditional Mercedes grille, with three illuminated glass louvres flanked by hundreds of illuminated elements and iconic tri-star-shaped headlights. The dynamic lighting extends to the sides and rear, creating a visual experience that begins as soon as passengers approach the vehicle.
At the top, you’ll find a bunch of solar panels that make up the roof with 168 full cells, capable of generating a little over 2kWh a day, which varies based on geographical location and sun intensity.
Vision V Interior: The “Private Lounge” experience
Spacious Entry and Exclusive Comfort
Access to the rear cabin is facilitated by a large portal-style door with a retractable illuminated running board. Inside, passengers are greeted by a luxurious “Private Lounge” separated from the driver’s cockpit by a switchable glass partition. Crystal white Nappa leather, burr wood inlays, and aluminium detailing create an atmosphere of bespoke elegance.
Luxury Seating and Artisan Detailing
The seating in this top-of-the-line luxury Mercedes van mimics the design of high-end lounge chairs, supported by polished aluminium bases and formed from tubular cushion structures. These are not only visually striking but offer multiple configurations, including full recline for maximum relaxation. It also gets a bunch of crystal elements for a truly futuristic vibe which are unlikely to make it to production. Ambient lighting, bespoke fragrance dispensers, and hand-crafted display cabinets enhance the atmosphere inside the Mercedes Vision V concept, with further attention to detail such as a chessboard-themed fold-out table in the centre console, and concealed infotainment touchpads.
Vision V technology fest: Immersive digital experiences
Retractable Cinema Screen and lots of speakers
A 65-inch 4K cinema screen rises from beneath the floor, all the way to the ceiling of the cabin (take that BMW!). The display is supported by a 42-speaker Dolby Atmos system, including exciters in the seats and seven projectors that turn the side windows into additional screens. The result is a 360-degree digital environment of the Vision V concept that adapts dynamically to content and mood, merging visual, auditory, and haptic feedback.
Seven Thematic Experience Modes
Mercedes-Benz has curated seven interactive digital environments tailored to varying passenger needs:
- Entertainment: Video and music playback with immersive sound and visual experiences.
- Relax: Ambient visuals and calming music for stress relief.
- Gaming: Integration of racing games with dedicated controllers.
- Work: A virtual office setup with screen sharing and workspace functionality.
- Shopping: Interactive virtual storefronts for premium product selection.
- Discovery: Augmented reality-assisted navigation and sightseeing.
- Karaoke: In-vehicle entertainment through an onboard karaoke feature.
Customisable Privacy
Passenger privacy is enhanced through smart glass technology, which allows the windows and partition walls to switch from transparent to opaque in milliseconds. This not only enhances privacy but also acts as a dynamic surface for projections, digital displays, or sun shielding. You can also choose to only enable the opaqueness in sections if you’re not looking to isolate from the front of the cabin but still want some degree of privacy.
MBUX superscreen
At the front, the cockpit of the Mercedes-Benz Vision V concept is dominated by a Superscreen that spans the entire dashboard. Comprising three integrated screens, it delivers real-time graphics, driver assistance data, and personalised navigation with a high degree of user interface customisation.
Conclusion
The Mercedes-Benz Vision V concept is more than just a show car; it represents a strategic step towards establishing a new luxury mobility niche within the MPV segment. By merging advanced electric architecture, state-of-the-art digital ecosystems, and premium design, Mercedes-Benz is positioning itself to cater to a clientele seeking exclusivity and innovation in equal measure.
Comments
New Comment