The Wheel Network

2027 Mercedes-Benz VLE Production in Spain [4K]

▪ Mercedes-Benz Vans starts series production of the all-new electric Mercedes-Benz VLE at the Vitoria plant ▪ Mercedes-Benz is driving the transformation of the Vitoria site and, with VLE production now underway, is underlining its successful further development into a highly modern, sustainable and strategically central production hub for the next generation of vans ▪ The VLE is the first vehicle based on the specially developed, modular and drivetrain-flexible Van Architecture, and marks the beginning of a new era of Grand Limousines Mercedes-Benz celebrates the start of series production of the Mercedes-Benz VLE at its Vitoria plant in Spain with a special event. In addition to Thomas Klein, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans, and Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, the ceremony was attended by Jordi Hereu, Spain’s Minister of Industry and Tourism, and Imanol Pradales, President of the Basque Autonomous Community. Mercedes-Benz is thus underlining the industrial, strategic and regional significance of the production site, making the transformation of the Vitoria plant one of Mercedes-Benz Vans’ most significant industrial future projects in Europe. The start of production marks an important milestone and, at the same time, the beginning of a new phase for Mercedes-Benz Vans in Vitoria. With the VLE, the Vitoria site is, for the first time, manufacturing a vehicle based on the newly developed, modular and scalable Van Architecture. In future, this architecture will form the technological basis for the entire Mercedes-Benz Vans product portfolio – in both the private and commercial sectors. The Vitoria plant is therefore the first site in Mercedes-Benz’s global production network to build the new VLE in series. The Fuzhou plant in China will follow at the end of the year, producing vehicles specifically for the Chinese market. *The new Mercedes-Benz VLE: Redefining space in a new era* The Mercedes-Benz VLE, which celebrated its world premiere in March, combines the best of two worlds: the ride comfort and driving dynamics of a limousine with the spaciousness, versatility and flexibility of an MPV. Thanks to its high efficiency, new 800-volt technology and ultra-fast charging, the redefined Grand Limousine is suitable for a wide range of applications, setting new standards with up to eight seats and a range of more than 700 kilometres (WLTP). In addition, the intelligent Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS) takes the Mercedes Benz experience to an entirely new level. It controls all areas – from assistance and infotainment through to driving performance. *Vitoria plant successfully transformed* The start of series production of the VLE is an important step in the comprehensive transformation of the Vitoria plant – one of Mercedes-Benz Vans’ largest industrial future projects in Europe. Extensive investments in the new body shop, paint shop and assembly areas, as well as modernised logistics and IT structures, now enable highly flexible, multi-powertrain production on one line – digital, efficient and future-oriented. The comprehensive transformation of the site took place while existing models, including the V Class, Vito and eVito, continued to be produced. The site is therefore playing a key strategic role within Mercedes-Benz Vans’ global production network. In addition to the all-new electric VLE, further models based on the new architecture will also be produced here in future. The start of series production of the VLE thus strengthens the long-term competitiveness and future viability of the Vitoria site and underlines Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to the region. The successful transformation of the site is due in no small part to the high degree of flexibility and commitment shown by its workforce of approximately 5,000 direct employees. This commitment also forms the foundation for the successful ramp-up of the VLE. Through more than 160 training programmes, employees were prepared for new technologies, materials, IT standards, and processes. National and international qualification and training measures are ensuring quality, stability and an excellent start to series production. *Sustainability in production at Mercedes-Benz Vans* In addition to digitalisation and qualification, sustainability in production also plays a central role. The Mercedes-Benz VLE and its production in Vitoria are designed to support a resource-conserving and low-emission production approach. The Vitoria plant has already been carbon-neutral on balance since 2022. Electricity from renewable energy sources, geothermal energy and waste heat from body construction and the paint shop are used. All new buildings at the site comply with the Zero-Emission Building Standard (ZEB). In addition, a photovoltaic system has been installed, contributing to the site’s own supply of renewable electricity. ___ Video Timeline 0:00 – Body Shop 3:12 – Paint Shop 5:11 – Final Assembly