Mercedes-Benz has extended its portfolio of MPVs into the top-end segment with the Vision V concept
The German car maker revealed the Vision V concept at the Shanghai motor show, a reimagined people carrier that feels more like a penthouse suite than people mover.
Set on the new Van Electric Architecture (VAN.EA), this concept car previews a new top-end segment launching in 2026.
Marking the beginning of a “new era “the Vision V positions Mercedes-Benz Vans top for tech-laden MPVs – with a 65-inch retractable cinema screen, 42-speaker Dolby Atmos surround system, ambient lighting that reacts to the music and even a fragrance diffuser discreetly tucked behind the centre console.
Mercedes-Benz chief design officer Gordon Wagener commented: “The Mercedes‑Benz Vans have been iconic for decades. With the Vision V we take that heritage and transform it into a completely new context of highest luxury transportation.
“This show car embodies the perfect harmony between luxury and van design, setting a new benchmark for the future.”
At first glance, the aerodynamic silhouette conveys Mercedes-Benz’ design language of “sensual purity” with a sporty short bonnet and overhangs, large wheel arches and an expressive moulded edge. The stretched roofline flows into the smoothly rounded rear window confidently.
The anthracite Alubeam paint allows the vehicle to shimmer under light, accentuated by chrome-plated window surrounds and 24-inch wheels with illuminated louvres.
At the front, a newly interpreted grille consists of three horizontal class louvres, with almost 200 of these light elements also surrounding the chrome frame.
Framing the Mercedes star headlights on both sides are a further 190 illuminated louvres, which all lead to the star of the show, the lit-up Mercedes star on the bonnet.
Inside the vehicle, the focus is unapologetically on the lounge, which resembles a futuristic private cinema. When passengers step inside the automatically opening “portal” door, a 65-inch screen glides up from a burr wood and Napp leather console.
In fact, this luxurious material palette is implemented throughout the vehicle, with a glass wall that separates the private lounge from the driver’s area, with the glass possessing the ability to be changed from transparent to opaque in sections or in its entirety.
The unique seats, akin to floating lounge chairs, also add to the innovative interior feel, made from flexible tubular cushions, with shiny clasps made of polished aluminium holding the individual cushion tubes together. These seats can also be reclined to a flat position, ready to give the occupants a pamper.
Surrounding the seats is the purposeful lighting, crafted to recreate the warmth of a living room atmosphere. Even the floor slats and windows serve as reactive canvases.
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