The Vision V concept from Mercedes demonstrates that luxury vans are an excellent concept.

      Whether it’s large sedans or SUVs, Mercedes-Benz stands out as a leading name in luxury vehicles for those who prefer not to drive themselves. Now, the automaker is aiming to leverage its expertise into an entirely different category.

      Mercedes is introducing a new generation of vans that are the first to be developed entirely for electric powertrains while still fulfilling the functions of its existing van lineup. Before unveiling the standard delivery vans and hotel shuttles, Mercedes is introducing these new models with the Vision V — a concept vehicle that exemplifies how luxurious a van can be.

      The Vision V serves as a chauffeur-driven living room on wheels. A partition containing a large television divides the driver’s area from the rear, which replaces traditional seats with two reclining thrones, numerous speakers, and an expansive screen for an immersive audiovisual experience. It's the luxury vehicle you never knew you desired.

      A chance for something innovative

      Luxury minivans are well-received in Japan and China, yet in the U.S. and Europe, vehicles with sliding doors are typically not regarded as luxurious. With its forthcoming vans, based on new modular platforms named Van.EA (for electric vans) and Van.CA (for combustion vehicles), Mercedes aims to change that perception with a van "designed as a chauffeur-driven limousine," according to Benjamin Kaehler, chief engineer for Mercedes-Benz Vans, during a media preview event near Stuttgart, Germany.

      And why shouldn’t a van assume that role? If you’re going to be transported in a vehicle, it makes sense for it to be a spacious box on wheels. These vans are already utilized as hotel and airport shuttles, often enhanced with aftermarket luxurious interiors. SUVs have demonstrated that transitioning from a utilitarian vehicle to a VIP mode of transport is possible.

      However, a conventional boxy van doesn't quite possess the rugged appeal of an SUV, nor the sophistication of classic luxury sedans like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Thus, while Mercedes packed the Vision V concept with premium features, the designers had to create an exterior that significantly deviates from typical van aesthetics to spark interest in its interior.

      An extravagant van

      After signing confidentiality agreements and verifying credentials, a hidden wall dramatically lifted to reveal a concealed room, where the Vision V awaited under bright studio lights and effects smoke.

      This vehicle merits such a theatrical unveiling. Although it is unmistakably a van, its sloping roof, distinct character lines on the body, and a simple tailgate featuring a circular lighting element reminiscent of Star Trek's impulse engines give it a decidedly futuristic feel.

      The Vision V proudly showcases a lavish grille and striking 24-inch wheels.

      Moreover, the Vision V meets all the criteria for a luxury vehicle. In an era where many manufacturers are moving away from chrome to blacked-out trim, the Vision V embraces a bold grille with a mirror finish and equally eye-catching 24-inch mono-block wheels akin to those found on Mercedes’ ultra-luxury Maybach range. The classic hood ornament connects the Vision V to Mercedes' luxury lineage, alongside the segment-specific headlights that sweep upward from the grille and the dual power bulges in the hood.

      A unique feature of the Vision V that current Mercedes luxury models lack is electrochromic glass. This technology enhances privacy by allowing the side glass and interior partition to switch from transparent to opaque, surpassing traditional window tinting.

      Are you not amused?

      When the doors opened (operated by an attendant via remote control, as this is a concept car), the interior revealed a surreal design. The two rear seats featured tube-like elements, strange-looking speaker arrays (totaling 42 speakers), and an overhead lamp. The chosen colors were Apple Store white and polished aluminum, accentuated by the color-changing ambient lighting characteristic of recent Mercedes designs.

      Once installed, a process requiring protective coverings for my shoes and a seat cover to shield the rare leather upholstery, the seating proved surprisingly comfortable despite the unconventional layout. Mercedes managed to include a lounge chair-like recline thanks to ample space, although headroom was slightly constricted in the upright position. Integrated seatbelts allow reclining without unfastening, but it's uncertain if reclining passengers are part of customary crash-test evaluations.

      The Vision V’s cabin felt like a cozy lounge, remaining spacious despite the numerous features crammed into it.

      Facing the two seats is a 65-inch 4K display that rises before a partition separating the front seats. This setup creates exceptional experiences for gaming and movie-watching that far surpass the smaller screens available in current rear-seat entertainment systems. The visuals even extend from the screen onto the ceiling and door panels — the hard-to-clean white upholstery proves an excellent projection surface — and the screen can be partially elevated to act as a calming digital fireplace or an oversized “Now Playing” display.

      While the interior is meticulously finished, the Vision V remains a concept vehicle rather than one ready for production. The fans designed to keep its electronics cool were quite audible during my time inside (while the temperature