Mercedes-Benz redefines luxury, but this time with a minivan, not an SUV or sedan. Mercedes unveiled the Vision V Concept at the Shanghai Auto Show in China, officially entering the ultra-luxury MPV market. This concept car also highlights the direction of its new electric platform, VAN.EA (Van Electric Architecture).
The Vision V breaks away from traditional minivan expectations. It’s not just a mode of transportation, but a sensory experience, showcasing Mercedes’ vision for future premium mobility. The interior features a 65-inch 4K display, a Dolby Atmos sound system with 42 speakers, and built-in seat vibration devices, creating an environment that feels more like a private lounge than a car.
An Interior That Redefines Luxury
More Than Just a Concept: Production-Ready Features
The highlight of the Vision V is its impressive interior. Privacy glass separates the front and rear compartments, while power-adjustable seats offer customizable positioning. One of the sensory features Mercedes emphasizes is the dedicated scent diffuser, and the seat-specific sound feedback system further enhances the sensory experience. The large display transforms the cabin into a mobile entertainment center, setting a new standard for luxury vans.
Notably, the vehicle isn’t just a typical autonomous driving concept car but is also designed with actual driving in mind. The front features a real-world steering wheel and pedals, along with Mercedes’ latest MBUX SuperScreen display, hinting at the possibility of driving the vehicle. This setup suggests that the Vision V is a demo vehicle with production potential in mind.
Beyond the Typical Concept Car
A New Echelon of Luxury
It’s hard to dismiss the Vision V as a one-off show car. This vehicle marks the beginning of Mercedes-Benz’s VAN.EA electric van platform, which will be implemented starting in 2026. Thanks to the platform’s scalable structure, various derivative models are expected, from luxury to commercial, camper, and autonomous shuttle vans. Although specific powertrain specs haven’t been revealed yet, Mercedes considers the production of customized models with various electric motor combinations and battery pack configurations.
The Vision V stands out with its bold style, sleek LED signature, simplified front design, and floating roof. It represents a design philosophy that transcends the traditional limits of an MPV. The interior, which exceeds the exterior’s luxury, hints at Mercedes’ plans to enter the high-end van market, potentially within the Maybach lineup.
The Dawn of Personal Luxury Lounges
Vision V: A Name for the History Books
The Vision V points toward a new luxury segment, focusing on VIP shuttles, autonomous lounges, and personal luxury mobility. By transforming the van segment from a commercial use-only category into a spacious moving luxury lounge, Mercedes has made a bold move that redefines the future of luxury vans. Mercedes understands the importance of entering the market and securing long-term dominance.
The Vision V is expected to be introduced as a production model soon. When that happens, it will significantly change the MPV market and establish a place for vans in the luxury car market, which high-end sedans and SUVs have traditionally dominated, as the first example of the VAN.EA platform, the Vision V will be remembered as the beginning of this new era.
