Mercedes-Benz revealed its new VISION V concept MPV on the eve of the Shanghai Auto Show, signalling the luxury automaker’s ambitious entry into the premium electric MPV market. The production version, which will have minimal design changes from the concept, is expected to debut in 2026.
Striking Exterior Design
Built on Mercedes’ dedicated VAN.EA electric platform, the Vision V concept features a distinctive exterior that balances Mercedes-Benz design language with electric vehicle aesthetics. The front end showcases an illuminated Mercedes emblem and a closed shield-shaped grille reminiscent of the S-Class, but with a more rounded profile.
A light bar runs across the top of the shield grille, further emphasising its electric identity. The rear design is equally striking, featuring a ring-shaped taillight that outlines a large glass panel, creating a clean and futuristic look.
Luxurious Four-Seat Interior
The Vision V’s most impressive features are found inside the cabin, which Mercedes describes as a “private VIP lounge.” The concept adopts a four-seat layout, positioning it as a luxury vehicle focused on comfort and opulence.
The interior combines premium materials, including wood trim, white Nappa leather, white silk, and extensive glass elements. Transparent glass cabinets are integrated into polished aluminium frames on both sides of the cabin, adding to the luxurious ambience.
Advanced Technology Features
The concept boasts an impressive 42-speaker Burmester sound system supporting Dolby Atmos. Four speakers are encased in glass housings mounted on extended vehicle pillars, creating a distinctive visual element.
The seating design mimics first-class aeroplane accommodations with fully reclining capabilities. The seats feature flexible tubular cushions that can be flattened into a bed. A control panel integrated into the central armrest manages the vehicle’s infotainment system, and a folding table can transform into a chessboard, with glass chess pieces stored in transparent cabinets.
Perhaps the most futuristic feature is the glass partition between the driver and passenger areas, which can be electronically frosted for privacy. This partition serves as part of a 65-inch retractable projection screen system. The system creates an immersive viewing environment with seven projectors hidden in the roof lining and floor, plus side windows that can serve as additional projection surfaces.
This projection system enables unique experiences for rear passengers, including a gaming mode where they can play racing games using controllers while sitting in the vehicle, and an “exploration mode” that displays the outside environment on the interior projections even when windows are closed.
Future Production Plans
Mercedes-Benz has announced that its future luxury MPVs based on the VAN.EA electric platform will use new naming conventions: Mercedes-Benz VLS and Mercedes-Benz VLE, with the “S” and “E” designations indicating their premium positioning in the lineup. These production models are scheduled to debut in 2026.
The luxury MPV market has transformed dramatically in recent years, evolving from a relatively quiet segment to a highly competitive space with numerous new entrants. With the Vision V concept, Mercedes-Benz is positioning itself to compete at the highest end of this growing market segment.
