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Mercedes-Benz Unveils Vision V Concept: An Electric Luxury People Carrier Redefining VIP Travel
Mercedes-Benz has heralded a new era for opulent transportation, showcasing the Vision V concept, a striking all-electric people carrier, at the Shanghai Motor Show. This concept vehicle, boasting a sophisticated cinematic experience, signals what the German automaker envisions as the future of first-class travel within its forthcoming generation of battery-powered vehicles, slated for release starting in 2026.
Setting a New Benchmark for Premium Mobility
The Vision V concept represents Mercedes-Benz’s ambition to establish a new standard for VIP mobility. This lavish shuttle concept is replete with advanced technology and indulgent amenities, more reminiscent of a luxury residence than a conventional automobile interior.
Unparalleled Interior Comfort and Design
Departing from traditional rear seating, the Vision V incorporates just two first-class, aircraft-style seats in the rear compartment. Each seat features contoured cushions and extensive reclining capabilities, designed to provide exceptional comfort during journeys. This design ethos transforms the vehicle into a sanctuary of relaxation and entertainment.
Private Lounge Experience
The rear compartment is conceived as a ‘private lounge,’ distinctly separated from the driver’s area by a massive 65-inch television screen. This screen, retractable into the floor, serves as both an entertainment display and a privacy partition. Complementing the visual experience is a 42-speaker sound system and adjustable ambient lighting with seven selectable themes. Furthermore, the rear windows offer switchable transparency, allowing passengers to control cabin privacy with ease. These features collectively deliver an unparalleled in-car entertainment experience.
Karaoke and Entertainment Features
Adding to its unique appeal, the Vision V includes a dedicated karaoke function. This feature projects song lyrics onto the expansive flat-screen display – the largest ever integrated into a vehicle – enabling passengers to enjoy karaoke sessions while traveling. This innovative entertainment system transforms commutes into enjoyable experiences.
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Vision of Future Electric Vans
The Vision V offers a preview of Mercedes-Benz’s capabilities with its new Van Electric Architecture (VAN.EA) platform, set to debut next year. This platform is designed to compete with premium MPV rivals such as the Lexus LM and Volvo EM90. It will form the foundation for Mercedes-Benz’s next generation of electric people carriers, ultimately succeeding the V Class as emission regulations evolve beyond 2030.
Exterior Design and Aerodynamics
Mercedes-Benz has provided insights into the future aesthetics of its large electric models. The Vision V showcases notable design elements aimed at maximizing aerodynamic efficiency and minimizing energy consumption. A prominent feature is the oversized new grille, dominating the vehicle’s front fascia. Positioned beneath a futuristic light bar, which spans the bonnet and integrates LED headlight clusters, the grille makes a bold visual statement.
Striking Light Arrangements
The rear of the Vision V mirrors the front’s dramatic lighting design. An almost square light structure outlines the entire rear window, creating a distinctive visual signature. A substantial sliding rear door ensures effortless access to the luxurious rear cabin.
Focus on Interior Opulence
Mercedes-Benz designers have prioritized the interior environment for this top-tier business-class vehicle. Thomas Klein, head of Mercedes-Benz Vans, states, ‘The Vision V marks the inception of a new era for Mercedes-Benz Vans. It authentically demonstrates how we integrate luxury into a spacious environment, thereby defining a novel market segment. In doing so, we are setting new benchmarks in design, comfort, and user-centric experiences, while fulfilling the most discerning demands of our clientele.’
Driver-Centric Cockpit
The driver’s area contrasts with the rear lounge, featuring a more conventional cockpit equipped with a familiar steering wheel and Mercedes-Benz’s existing three-display ‘Superscreen’ system. Crystal-style air vents accentuate the dashboard, while transparent door inlays offer an unobstructed view of the premium speakers positioned behind them.
Lounge Features and Entertainment
The rear lounge, dominated by airline-style seating and the large TV screen, includes refined details such as glass-panelled door sections. These compartments house items like tumblers and cocktail shakers, and even a crystal chess set. Passengers can utilize the screen for diverse functions beyond entertainment.
Relaxation and Interactive Modes
Beyond standard TV and movie viewing, passengers can select a ‘Relax’ mode, which creates a calming atmosphere with soft music and serene landscape visuals on the cinema screen. For interactive engagement, gamers can connect devices using compatible controllers, and shoppers can access online retail platforms directly through the screen.
Discovery Mode
The ‘Discovery’ mode integrates with the vehicle’s navigation system to display real-time surroundings on the 65-inch screen, utilizing 3D graphics and augmented reality to overlay pertinent information onto the camera feed. This feature enhances journeys with informative and engaging visuals.
Powertrain and Range
Although specific powertrain details remain undisclosed, the VAN.EA platform underpinning the Vision V incorporates 800V electrical architecture and will offer both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations. Mercedes-Benz anticipates a maximum range exceeding 311 miles for the longest-range variant, with pricing details expected closer to its market introduction.