Mercedes-Benz VLE drives to Rome and passes long distance tests with flying colours

The route from Stuttgart to Rome, which took two Mercedes‑Benz VLE test vehicles, covered almost 1,100 kilometers - with just two short charging stops of 15 minutes each. The route profile: Demanding. On winding and steep pass roads across the Alps, long freeway sections, busy country roads and in narrow streets, the VLE demonstrated its suitability for everyday use, for example, for travel by families and leisure enthusiasts. Suitability for everyday use with regard to the efficiency of the electric drivetrain as well as recuperation, thermal management and effects of the rear axle steering on vehicle handling. The test vehicles easily covered the 1,090 ‑ kilometer route from Stuttgart to Rome in flowing traffic in around 13 hours. Charging took only two times for 15 minutes each time on the road. At the start in Stuttgart, the outside temperature was 11 degrees Celsius, while the arrival in Rome took place at 33 degrees. Comfort was not dispensed with, while the interior was air-conditioned to 22 degrees throughout the entire route. The rear axle steering proved its worth in particular on winding pass roads and in the narrow streets of Italian cities. It will ensure agility and thus stress-free handling in everyday life.