Mercedes' Rolling VIP Room Concept Van Makes an S-Class Seem Confined

      Mercedes-Benz

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      Mercedes-Benz is venturing into a new niche within the minivan market. The company showcased a concept named Vision V at the biennial Shanghai auto show, positioned at the crossroads of passenger vans and limousines. Although the design doesn't resemble a typical prom limo, it features an upscale, futuristic interior packed with technology. Production is set to follow.

      As you approach the Vision V, its wide sliding door opens automatically to reveal seats that resemble a version of the Michelin Man designed by Mercedes. These seats draw inspiration from high-end lounge chairs and feature highly flexible tubular cushions. The best seating option is at the rear: passengers can enjoy individual, power-adjustable seats that recline fully into a bed.

      Several elements support the idea that the Vision V is a modern take on classic Mercedes limousines, such as the 600 Pullman. A partition divides the driver’s area from the rear, which the brand calls a Private Lounge, and it can switch from transparent to opaque with the push of a button. The side panels are adorned with open-pore wood trim and LED accents, while the center console can be configured in multiple ways. In its simplest form, it serves as an armrest with an integrated display cabinet, but it also includes a fold-out table transforming into a chessboard, with pieces stored in a cabinet on the driver’s side. We wonder what kind of specialized suspension would be needed for a smooth ride suitable for an impromptu chess match.

      If chess isn't to your taste, Mercedes has other options. They've included a retractable 65-inch screen with 4K resolution, which features a split-screen function, allowing rear passengers to watch or play different content simultaneously. The screen is connected to a surround sound system with 42 speakers, some embedded in the seats to provide a haptic audio experience. It sounds like the ultimate in rear seat entertainment, but passengers can also use the screen for work or online shopping.

      The driver (or more likely, the chauffeur) has a three-spoke steering wheel and a high-resolution display that spans the entire dashboard. This is an evolution of the Superscreen system, integrating a digital instrument cluster, the infotainment touchscreen, and a display for the front passenger into one unit. Users can customize various features through profile creation.

      Aesthetically, the Vision V sports a distinctive appearance that some may love or hate, featuring a chrome grille with illuminated glass louvers, a light bar, and a glowing three-pointed star. At the rear, a window is framed by over 450 individual lighting elements. We believe the proportions are quite sleek for a van; this concept is certainly more visually appealing than a typical delivery van. We hope you appreciate its design, as Mercedes indicates that the Vision V will be a key part of its evolving design philosophy.

      Mercedes has yet to reveal technical specifications. What we do know is that the Vision V is built on the modular Van Electric Architecture (VAN.EA) platform currently under development for the next generation of the company’s vans, including the Sprinter. This suggests that the concept is likely electric and that transitioning to production will be technically feasible.

      We won't have to wait long for updates on the Vision V: Mercedes emphasized that this concept will lead to a production model. It’s uncertain when we’ll first see the van in person, what it will be named, and whether it will be available in the United States.

      Additionally, it will be interesting to see if models like the Vision V can revive the appeal of the minivan. Volkswagen is making an attempt with the retro ID. Buzz, Volvo has introduced the market-exclusive EM90 for China, and even Lexus offers a van named LM in select markets.