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The Mercedes-Benz plant in Vitoria, Spain, is poised for a transformative era with the successful start of pre-series production for the all-electric Mercedes-Benz VLE. This milestone marks significant progress toward series production, set to begin in 2026, ensuring the brand’s signature high-quality standards. The Vitoria facility, a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz Vans’ global production network, has undergone extensive modernization to accommodate the innovative, modular, and scalable van architecture underpinning the VLE.
Key Highlights
- Pre-series production of the VLE has begun successfully.
- Over 90% of construction work at the Vitoria plant is complete.
- The VLE will debut globally in first half of 2026.
- The plant operates with net carbon-neutral production.
- Employees underwent 160+ training programs for new processes.
Advanced Production Capabilities
The Vitoria plant has been upgraded to produce the VLE alongside models like the V-Class, Vito, and eVito, offering flexibility to meet diverse customer demands. The facility now features a modern bodyshop, a fully flexible paint shop, and an updated assembly hall. Artificial intelligence and digital tools, including a digital twin of production, enhance efficiency and precision. The introduction of the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS) in van production marks a technological leap.
Sustainability is a priority, with the plant utilizing renewable energy since 2013, a photovoltaic system for green electricity, geothermal heating, and waste heat recovery from painting processes. These efforts align with Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to net carbon-neutral production.
Workforce Readiness
Approximately 5,000 employees at Vitoria have been trained across more than 160 programs, covering new IT standards, technologies, and materials. Collaborative efforts with other Mercedes-Benz plants ensured comprehensive preparation, positioning Vitoria as a leader in the company’s global network.
The VLE: Redefining Versatility
The VLE, built on the new Van Electric Architecture (VAN.EA), combines sedan-like handling with MPV versatility, offering up to eight seats. It caters to families, active lifestyles, and exclusive shuttle services. Development milestones include record-breaking aerodynamics, agile performance at Italy’s Nardò test track, and reliable operation in Arctic winter conditions. The VLE completed a Stuttgart-to-Rome journey with just two 15-minute charging stops, showcasing its efficiency.
A Legacy of Innovation
Located in Spain’s Basque Country, the Vitoria plant, operational since 1954, spans 665,000 m² of production space. Celebrating its 70th anniversary in 2024, the facility is expanding to support both electric (VAN.EA) and combustion (VAN.CA) van architectures from 2026. “The VLE is launching a new era,” said Bernd Krottmayer, Head of the Vitoria Plant, praising the team’s rapid adaptation and flexibility.
Global Premiere in 2026
The VLE’s world premiere, slated for the first half of 2026, will showcase Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to customer-focused design, sustainability, and cutting-edge technology. The Vitoria plant’s advancements position it as a pioneer in sustainable van production, ready to shape the future of mobility.
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