Mercedes-Benz Group AG has unveiled its new all-electric luxury limousine van series, dubbed “Vision V,” with plans to produce some of the vehicles in China. The luxury vans will feature lounge chairs that can fold down into beds and massive screens capable of transforming the interior into a private cinema or karaoke bar.
At a preview event ahead of the Shanghai auto show, CEO Ola Källenius stated, “Today we want to give you a good look at our vision of a private lounge on wheels.” He expressed confidence in the enormous potential of this new segment both in China and globally, noting that the concept and production model will be very similar.
The unveiling comes as Mercedes-Benz faces challenges in the Chinese market. The company’s car sales in China dropped 7% last year and 10% in the first quarter, while van sales plummeted 20% last year and 39% in the first quarter. The decline is attributed to stiff competition from local rivals and a sluggish economy affecting consumer confidence.
Mercedes-Benz’s move into the all-electric luxury van segment is a strategic response to the evolving market dynamics in China, where the company is navigating increased competition and economic headwinds. The “Vision V” series represents a significant step in the company’s electric vehicle strategy, aiming to capitalize on the growing demand for luxury electric vehicles.
