While many international automakers are pausing or scaling back their van launch plans due to declining market demand, Mercedes-Benz is bucking the trend.
At the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, the German luxury car brand officially unveiled the Vision V Concept – a preview of an all-new commercial van generation, slated for production from 2026.
Challenging the long-held perception of vans as mere people or cargo carriers, Mercedes-Benz positions the Vision V Concept as the “pinnacle of luxurious and elegant multi-purpose vehicles.” According to the brand, this concept aims to surpass and elevate the V-Class and Vito, targeting the most discerning customers in terms of comfort and experience.
Departing from the boxy designs typical of traditional vans, the Vision V Concept captivates with its sleek and fluid lines from the body to the roof and windows. The front features a closed grille integrated with a unique LED lighting system. A continuous positioning light strip connects the main headlamp clusters, along with a silver trim on the lower bumper, creating a modern and striking appearance.
In contrast, the rear end embraces minimalism, with a single light strip encircling the entire rear hatch. This design is intended to create a visual focal point and may be adjusted for the final production model.
The Vision V Concept impresses with its cabin, designed as a mobile living room.
The cockpit is equipped with a multifunction steering wheel and a Hyperscreen display that spans the entire dashboard, similar to the brand’s high-end sedans like the EQS and S-Class. The inclusion of these elements suggests that the concept is close to the production version, reinforcing the information that the Vision V will be launched in 2026.
In the passenger compartment, notable amenities include a 65-inch 4K TV paired with a 42-speaker Dolby Atmos sound system, delivering an exceptional in-vehicle entertainment experience rarely found in vans.
The van features a glass partition that completely separates the front seats from the passenger compartment, ensuring privacy and minimizing distractions for the driver. This glass partition can be adjusted for opacity, similar to those found in ultra-luxury vehicles.
Each seat is electrically adjustable and customizable. The cabin features a subtle yet distinctive fragrance, leaving a lasting impression on occupants. This van also includes a chessboard, an amenity recently introduced by Rolls-Royce.
The Vision V Concept is built on the VAN.EA platform – a dedicated architecture for commercial electric vehicles. While Mercedes-Benz has not disclosed details about the powertrain or technical specifications, the use of this platform underscores the brand’s commitment to sustainability in the commercial vehicle segment.
The vehicle is currently on display at the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, allowing visitors to get an up-close look at the “future of the V-Class and Vito.”
TH (Tuoitrethudo)
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The fascinating aspect lies in the fact that Denza is a joint venture brand established by BYD and Mercedes-Benz. This unique collaboration combines the innovation and expertise of two automotive powerhouses, resulting in a brand that offers a truly exceptional driving experience. With BYD’s strong presence in the new energy vehicle market and Mercedes-Benz’s renowned luxury and performance, Denza is poised to deliver an unparalleled blend of cutting-edge technology and refined elegance.