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Mercedes-Benz Strengthens Solid-State Battery Partnership With ProLogium as 1,205-km EV Range Becomes Reality

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Mercedes-Benz is taking another major step toward the next generation of electric vehicles by deepening its partnership with Taiwanese battery specialist ProLogium. The agreement gives Mercedes-Benz priority access to ProLogium’s fourth-generation solid-state battery cells, allowing the German automaker to test technology that could significantly improve EV range, charging speed, safety and battery efficiency.

The partnership comes as the global automotive industry accelerates its development of solid-state batteries, widely regarded as one of the most important potential breakthroughs in electric vehicle technology.

Unlike conventional lithium-ion batteries, which use a liquid electrolyte, solid-state batteries replace it with a non-flammable solid material. The change has the potential to deliver higher energy density, faster charging, improved safety and longer battery life while potentially reducing some of the limitations associated with today’s EV battery technology.

Mercedes-Benz Gets Priority Access to ProLogium Gen4 Solid-State Cells

Mercedes-Benz and ProLogium have been working together for more than a decade, developing and evaluating advanced battery technologies for future electric vehicles.

Under the strengthened partnership, Mercedes-Benz will receive priority access to ProLogium’s fourth-generation lithium ceramic battery cells. The German automaker will conduct electrical, thermal and safety testing at its own facilities as well as through independent third-party testing institutes.

ProLogium’s Gen4 technology uses ceramic separator technology combined with a non-flammable inorganic electrolyte. According to the company, the architecture is designed to provide high power output while also supporting rapid charging.

For Mercedes-Benz, the agreement provides an opportunity to evaluate the technology under demanding automotive conditions before potential integration into future production EVs.

“At Mercedes-Benz, we are committed to shaping the future of electric mobility through technological leadership and innovation,” said Jörg Burzer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG.

“Our long-standing partnership with ProLogium is a strong example of how we bring the best expertise together to advance next-generation battery technologies. By combining ProLogium’s pioneering solid-state battery approach with Mercedes-Benz’s deep battery development, testing and integration capabilities, we are taking the next step in exploring advanced battery technologies for future electric vehicles.”

Why Solid-State Batteries Matter for Electric Cars

Battery technology remains one of the biggest areas of competition among automakers, and solid-state batteries could address several of the key limitations of current electric vehicles.

A higher energy density would allow automakers to store more energy without necessarily increasing battery-pack size or weight. For consumers, that could translate into longer driving ranges from similarly sized battery packs.

Fast charging is another major target. If solid-state cells can achieve consistently high charging speeds without compromising durability or safety, future EVs could spend considerably less time connected to a charger.

Safety is equally important. The non-flammable nature of the electrolyte used in ProLogium’s lithium ceramic technology could reduce some of the thermal risks associated with conventional battery systems.

The technology could therefore have an impact beyond simply increasing driving range. A successful solid-state battery could influence vehicle packaging, weight, charging infrastructure requirements and overall EV performance.

Mercedes-Benz Is Testing More Than One Solid-State Battery Technology

ProLogium is not Mercedes-Benz’s only partner in the race toward solid-state batteries.

The German manufacturer is also working with U.S.-based Factorial Energy, testing lithium-metal solid-state battery technology.

That partnership has already produced a striking real-world demonstration.

A Mercedes-Benz EQS fitted with a Factorial solid-state battery pack completed a test drive covering 748.8 miles, or 1,205 kilometers, on a single charge. Even more significant, Mercedes-Benz said the vehicle still had an estimated 85 miles, or 137 kilometers, of range remaining when the test ended.

That suggests a theoretical total range of more than 1,340 kilometers under the conditions of the test, although the result should not be interpreted as an official production-vehicle WLTP range figure.

Nevertheless, the test demonstrates why automakers are investing heavily in solid-state technology. Range figures approaching or exceeding 1,000 kilometers could fundamentally change how consumers perceive long-distance electric travel.

ProLogium Is Preparing for European Battery Production

ProLogium already operates a large battery manufacturing facility in Taiwan, but the company’s European expansion could become particularly important for Mercedes-Benz and other automakers on the continent.

The company is planning a battery manufacturing facility in Dunkirk, France, with a projected capacity of up to 44 GWh.

The French plant is intended to supply battery cells to customers across Europe, potentially giving ProLogium a strategically important manufacturing base close to major automotive markets.

For Mercedes-Benz, local European battery production could also simplify future supply chains if ProLogium’s technology progresses from testing to series production.

Mercedes-Benz Is Joining a Global Solid-State Battery Race

Mercedes-Benz is far from alone in pursuing solid-state batteries.

Major automakers including Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Volkswagen, Stellantis, BYD and Chery are also investing in or testing various forms of next-generation battery technology.

The approaches differ significantly. Some companies are focusing on lithium-metal architectures, while others are developing ceramic, sulfide or alternative solid electrolytes.

The industry is also moving from laboratory development toward vehicle-level testing, suggesting that solid-state batteries are gradually transitioning from a long-term research project into a potential production technology.

The biggest challenge remains scaling. A battery cell can perform impressively in laboratory or prototype testing, but producing millions of reliable cells at competitive cost is a much more difficult engineering and manufacturing problem.

The Next Big Step for Mercedes-Benz EVs

The strengthened ProLogium partnership does not mean that a production Mercedes-Benz EV with Gen4 solid-state batteries is ready to launch. The cells must still undergo extensive electrical, thermal, safety, durability and integration testing before any decision on mass production can be made.

However, Mercedes-Benz’s parallel work with ProLogium and Factorial Energy shows that the company is pursuing multiple solid-state battery solutions rather than relying on a single technology.

If these technologies successfully make the transition into high-volume production, the implications could be substantial. Longer range, significantly faster charging, lower battery weight and improved safety could make future Mercedes-Benz electric vehicles fundamentally different from today’s EQ models.

For now, ProLogium’s fourth-generation lithium ceramic cells represent another important step in that development process. And with Mercedes-Benz gaining priority access for testing, the partnership could provide an early look at what the next generation of long-range electric cars will be capable of.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

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2027 Mercedes-Benz GLA Enters Production in Rastatt With New Hybrid and Electric Powertrains

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Mercedes-Benz has officially started series production of the new-generation GLA at its Rastatt plant in Germany, marking another major step in the company’s transformation of its compact vehicle production network. The new GLA is being manufactured alongside its fully electric counterpart, while advanced hybrid versions using 48-volt technology are scheduled to join production later in 2026.

The latest GLA represents more than a new addition to Mercedes-Benz’s compact SUV lineup. It is also a showcase for the company’s increasingly digital manufacturing strategy, combining flexible production systems, artificial intelligence, digital twins and the Mercedes-Benz Operating System, or MB.OS.

New Mercedes-Benz GLA production begins in Rastatt

The Mercedes-Benz Rastatt plant has been producing compact models since 1992 and has become one of the company’s most important manufacturing locations for vehicles in this segment.

Around 7,000 people work at the site, making it the largest employer in the surrounding region. The plant is designed around a flexible production philosophy, allowing vehicles with different propulsion technologies to be built on the same production line.

That capability is particularly important as Mercedes-Benz continues to transition between combustion engines, hybrids and fully electric vehicles.

The new GLA is currently being produced in Assembly Hall 4.0. Mercedes-Benz plans to move production of the model into the neighbouring Assembly Hall 4.1 from 2027, with the company investing a low-three-digit-million-euro sum in the conversion.

Michael Schiebe, Mercedes-Benz board member responsible for Production, Quality and Supply Chain Management, said the launch reinforces Rastatt’s importance within the company’s global production network.

He also highlighted the increasing role of digital technologies, with MB.OS, artificial intelligence and the company’s MO360 production ecosystem integrated into the manufacturing process.

Mercedes-Benz GLA production uses digital twins

One of the most interesting aspects of the Rastatt transformation is Mercedes-Benz’s use of digital twins.

Before physical construction work begins, engineers can recreate production facilities and manufacturing processes in a highly detailed virtual environment. This allows the company to simulate production lines, identify potential problems and optimise processes before equipment is installed.

Mercedes-Benz says the technology has already helped accelerate the conversion of Assembly Hall 4.0, which was completed in record time in 2023.

The same approach is now being used for Assembly Hall 4.1, with the goal of reducing both construction time and costs.

For Mercedes-Benz, digital manufacturing is becoming increasingly important as vehicle architectures become more complex and production must accommodate several powertrain technologies simultaneously.

New GLA combines electric and hybrid production

The new Mercedes-Benz GLA is being introduced with multiple propulsion technologies, reinforcing the company’s strategy of maintaining flexibility during the transition toward electrification.

The fully electric GLA is already in production at Rastatt, while hybrid versions equipped with 48-volt technology and a new-generation internal-combustion engine will follow later this year.

Building different versions of the same model on a common production line gives Mercedes-Benz greater flexibility when responding to changes in customer demand.

Instead of dedicating an entire factory exclusively to electric vehicles or combustion-powered models, Rastatt can adjust its production mix according to market requirements.

That flexibility is becoming increasingly valuable as the global automotive industry moves through a period in which electric vehicles, hybrids and combustion engines continue to coexist.

MB.OS brings software deeper into GLA production

Software is another major component of the new GLA.

Mercedes-Benz is integrating its MB.OS operating system into the vehicle from the production stage. The company describes MB.OS as a chip-to-cloud architecture designed to simplify the vehicle’s electronic and software infrastructure.

Rather than relying on numerous individual hardware modules for software distribution, the system uses a central server in the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud.

This approach means vehicles can leave the production line with the latest available software and provides the technological foundation for future software updates and digital services.

The new GLA also introduces advanced interaction technology, including the MBUX Virtual Assistant with generative artificial intelligence.

The objective is to make interaction with the vehicle more natural, allowing occupants to communicate with the car using conversational language rather than relying exclusively on conventional menu structures and commands.

Mercedes-Benz GLA electric components come from Germany

Although final assembly takes place in Rastatt, the new GLA is the product of a broader Mercedes-Benz manufacturing network across Germany.

Electric drive units and axles are supplied by the company’s Untertürkheim operations, including production sites in Mettingen and Hedelfingen.

An electric drive unit incorporates three fundamental elements: an electric motor, power electronics and the transmission system responsible for transferring power to the wheels.

Mettingen is also responsible for assembling complete electric axles, which are then delivered to Rastatt for vehicle production.

The high-voltage batteries are supplied by Mercedes-Benz subsidiary Accumotive from Kamenz in Saxony.

Accumotive has more than a decade of experience in battery manufacturing and is described by Mercedes-Benz as one of the company’s centres of excellence for high-voltage battery systems.

The company operates within Mercedes-Benz’s wider global battery production network, which spans three continents.

Kuppenheim supplies body components for the new GLA

Another important link in the GLA production chain is located just 10 kilometres from Rastatt.

The Mercedes-Benz Kuppenheim site has supplied body-in-white components, structural components and body parts to Rastatt since 2009. It is now also supporting production of the new GLA.

Since the beginning of 2026, Rastatt and Kuppenheim have been more closely integrated from an organisational perspective, with Kuppenheim becoming part of the Mercedes-Benz Rastatt plant.

The closer connection between the two sites is designed to strengthen production efficiency and coordination.

New Mercedes-Benz GLA gets a sportier design

Beyond its manufacturing technology, the new Mercedes-Benz GLA brings a substantially revised exterior and interior design.

The latest model adopts a lower silhouette and longer wheelbase, giving the compact SUV a sportier stance. One of its most distinctive elements is the illuminated Mercedes-Benz grille, which gives the front end a more recognisable appearance, particularly at night.

Mercedes-Benz has also redesigned the interior around increased digitalisation and improved practicality.

A large MBUX Superscreen dominates the dashboard, while higher-quality materials and a redesigned cabin aim to increase the perceived sophistication of the compact SUV.

The available panoramic roof adds to the feeling of space, while the longer wheelbase is intended to improve interior room and everyday versatility.

MBUX Virtual Assistant adds generative AI

The new GLA is also part of Mercedes-Benz’s broader move toward artificial intelligence inside the vehicle.

The MBUX Virtual Assistant incorporates generative AI technology to provide more natural interaction between driver and vehicle.

Instead of requiring drivers to navigate through conventional menus, the system is designed to understand more conversational requests and provide personalised assistance.

This represents another step in the evolution of Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment system, with software increasingly becoming as important to the vehicle experience as traditional mechanical hardware.

Rastatt becomes a key Mercedes-Benz compact-car hub

The launch of the new GLA further strengthens Rastatt’s position within Mercedes-Benz’s global production network.

The plant is now producing vehicles based on the company’s latest generation of technology while simultaneously supporting multiple propulsion concepts.

That combination of flexible manufacturing, digital production technologies and vertically integrated component supply is becoming increasingly important for Mercedes-Benz as the company adapts to changing global demand.

The ability to produce electric, hybrid and conventional vehicles within the same manufacturing environment gives Rastatt a significant degree of operational flexibility.

For the employees at the site, the GLA launch also represents a major investment in the plant’s future.

Torsten Höink, Chair of the Works Council at Mercedes-Benz Rastatt, described the start of production as an important new chapter for the facility and emphasised the role of innovation, expertise and teamwork in its long-term development.

The new GLA marks a new era for Mercedes-Benz

The start of production of the new Mercedes-Benz GLA is significant for reasons that extend well beyond the compact SUV itself.

It demonstrates how Mercedes-Benz is reshaping its manufacturing operations around a mixed powertrain strategy while simultaneously increasing the importance of software, artificial intelligence and digitally managed production.

With electric, hybrid and conventional technologies being accommodated within a flexible manufacturing environment, the Rastatt plant is effectively being prepared for an automotive market that remains in transition.

At the same time, the new GLA itself moves further into the digital era with MB.OS, the MBUX Superscreen and a generative-AI-powered virtual assistant, while its redesigned exterior and interior give Mercedes-Benz’s compact SUV a more distinctive and sophisticated character.

As production expands into Assembly Hall 4.1 from 2027, the GLA will become an even more important part of Rastatt’s next chapter — and another example of how Mercedes-Benz is combining traditional German manufacturing expertise with software-driven vehicle technology.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

NEW CARS

Mercedes-Benz VLE 400 4MATIC Arrives With 654-Km Range and 310 kW of Power

Mercedes-Benz is expanding the versatility of its new electric VLE Grand Limousine, adding a powerful all-wheel-drive model, new equipment packages and greater freedom to customise the luxury electric van.

The new Mercedes-Benz VLE 400 4MATIC becomes the range-topping performance variant, combining 310 kW of electric power with a 115-kWh usable battery and a claimed WLTP range of up to 654 kilometres. It can also accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.5 seconds, making it considerably more than simply a comfortable long-distance shuttle.

At the same time, Mercedes-Benz is restructuring the VLE lineup to give buyers more choice. Additional equipment packages, optional features and new seating configurations allow customers to tailor the electric Grand Limousine for everything from private family travel to executive transportation and professional shuttle services.

Mercedes-Benz VLE 400 4MATIC Brings 310 kW and All-Wheel Drive

The headline addition to the VLE lineup is the Mercedes-Benz VLE 400 4MATIC electric.

With a maximum output of 310 kW, the VLE 400 4MATIC is currently the most powerful version of the electric Grand Limousine. Its 115-kWh usable battery provides up to 654 km of WLTP-rated range, while an additional high-performance electric motor mounted on the rear axle gives the large luxury vehicle all-wheel drive.

Mercedes-Benz claims a 0-to-100-km/h acceleration time of 6.5 seconds.

That figure is particularly notable given the VLE’s size and its focus on passenger comfort. Rather than treating performance as an end in itself, the 4MATIC system is intended to broaden the vehicle’s operating envelope by improving traction and stability in difficult road and weather conditions.

For customers who regularly travel in rain, snow or mountainous areas, the additional traction could be one of the most significant advantages of the new version.

Up to 654 Kilometres of Electric Range

Long-distance usability is central to the VLE concept, and the VLE 400 4MATIC combines its performance with a substantial battery.

The 115-kWh usable battery delivers a maximum claimed range of 654 kilometres according to the WLTP cycle. That gives the electric Mercedes-Benz considerable potential as a long-distance people carrier, particularly for customers who want to replace a conventional combustion-powered luxury van with an EV.

Real-world range will naturally depend on factors such as speed, temperature, passenger load, road conditions and the use of heating or air conditioning. Nevertheless, the official 654-km figure puts the VLE firmly into the conversation for intercity travel and high-mileage professional use.

Mercedes-Benz VLE 400 4MATIC Can Tow 2.5 Tonnes

The new all-wheel-drive VLE is not limited to transporting passengers.

The VLE 400 4MATIC has a maximum towing capacity of 2.5 tonnes, allowing it to pull caravans, boat trailers and horse trailers. Mercedes-Benz also quotes a maximum towbar load of 100 kilograms, which opens the door to carrying e-bikes using a suitable towbar-mounted carrier.

The vehicle is also equipped with electronic assistance systems designed to make towing easier.

ESP trailer stabilisation is intended to help maintain stability when a trailer begins to move laterally, while Trailer Manoeuvring Assist can make low-speed trailer manoeuvring considerably less demanding.

This combination of electric propulsion, all-wheel drive and a 2.5-tonne towing capacity gives the VLE 400 4MATIC an unusual degree of versatility for an electric luxury passenger vehicle.

Five-, Six- and Up-to-Eight-Seat Configurations

Mercedes-Benz is also giving customers more flexibility when specifying the VLE.

Depending on configuration, the electric Grand Limousine can accommodate as many as eight occupants. Five- and six-seat versions are also available, allowing customers to prioritise either passenger capacity or additional space and comfort.

The five-seat VLE 400 4MATIC starts at €65,926.08 excluding VAT, while the six-seat version starts at €66,310.08 excluding VAT.

Including VAT, the starting prices are €78,452.04 for the five-seat model and €78,909 for the six-seat version.

Leasing starts at €645.54 per month excluding VAT for the five-seater and €649.30 excluding VAT for the six-seater, subject to the applicable leasing conditions.

Mercedes-Benz VLE 300 Electric Starts Below €60,000 Excluding VAT

The expansion of the range isn’t limited to the new 4MATIC flagship.

Mercedes-Benz is also repositioning the standard VLE configuration to make the electric Grand Limousine more accessible.

The Mercedes-Benz VLE 300 electric is now available as a five-seater from €59,441.50 excluding VAT, equivalent to €70,735.39 including VAT.

The six-seat version starts at €59,821.50 excluding VAT, or €71,187.59 including VAT.

This creates a wider spread between the entry-level VLE and the more powerful VLE 400 4MATIC, giving buyers the option of spending less on the vehicle itself or moving up the range for additional performance and all-wheel-drive capability.

Four Main Equipment Packages Expand Customisation

Mercedes-Benz is also expanding the equipment strategy for the VLE.

The range now offers multiple equipment packages designed to allow buyers to add comfort, technology and luxury features without necessarily selecting every available option individually.

The package hierarchy includes:

  • Standard Equipment
  • Advanced Package
  • Advanced Plus Package
  • Premium Package
  • Premium Plus Package

Depending on the chosen specification, customers can combine these packages with trim levels including AMG Line, AMG Line Plus and EXCLUSIVE.

This approach makes the VLE more configurable while also giving buyers a clearer path toward higher levels of luxury equipment.

Advanced Package Adds More Luxury and Convenience

The Advanced Package introduces a number of features designed to enhance everyday usability and passenger comfort.

Available equipment includes black high-gloss turned 19-inch alloy wheels, shaded rear glass, an EASY-PACK tailgate with separately opening rear window, rear-axle steering and THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control.

Ambient lighting and illuminated door sill panels further enhance the cabin environment.

Rear-axle steering is particularly useful on a vehicle of this size, as it can improve manoeuvrability in urban environments and reduce the effort required when parking or negotiating tight spaces.

Advanced Plus and Premium Packages Focus on Technology

Moving higher up the equipment range brings more sophisticated technology and comfort features.

The Advanced Plus Package can include DIGITAL LIGHT, a Burmester 3D surround sound system, electrically adjustable front seats and steering wheel, enhanced ambient lighting and the Comfort Package Plus with KEYLESS-GO.

The Premium specification takes the technology level even further with features such as DIGITAL LIGHT with projection function, MBUX Augmented Navigation, a head-up display and the MBUX Superscreen.

Mercedes-Benz also offers ENERGIZING AIR CONTROL, active front-seat ventilation and the Massage function Plus, reinforcing the VLE’s positioning as a luxury vehicle rather than simply a practical electric van.

More Equipment Is Now Optional

One of the more significant changes to the VLE range is Mercedes-Benz’s decision to make several previously mandatory features available as optional equipment.

This should give customers greater control over the final specification and potentially make it easier to configure a VLE around specific needs rather than paying for equipment they do not require.

For example, AIRMATIC air suspension is no longer the only suspension choice. Customers can also specify a comfort suspension.

AC charging at up to 11 kW is now available as an option as well.

The strategy effectively broadens the VLE’s appeal by allowing customers to choose between a more straightforward entry-level configuration and a highly equipped luxury specification.

Mercedes-Benz VLE Targets Both Private and Professional Buyers

The VLE’s expanding configuration range reflects the variety of roles Mercedes-Benz expects the vehicle to fulfil.

For private buyers, the combination of multiple seating configurations, a long electric range and luxury equipment makes the VLE an alternative to large premium SUVs and conventional luxury vans.

For professional operators, meanwhile, the VLE could serve as an executive shuttle, hotel transfer vehicle, airport transport or premium passenger carrier.

The VLE 400 4MATIC’s 2.5-tonne towing capacity adds another dimension, potentially making it useful for leisure activities involving caravans, boats or horse trailers.

Electric Luxury Van With a Wider Mission

Mercedes-Benz is clearly positioning the VLE as more than an electric replacement for an existing van.

The combination of up to eight seats, a 654-km WLTP range, 310 kW of power, all-wheel drive and a 2.5-tonne towing capacity gives the VLE a broad range of potential applications.

At the same time, the extensive equipment list—including DIGITAL LIGHT, the MBUX Superscreen, Burmester 3D audio, massage seats and advanced climate-control technology—pushes the model deeper into premium territory.

The result is an electric Grand Limousine that can be configured for very different customers without fundamentally changing its core character.

Mercedes-Benz VLE: A More Flexible Electric Grand Limousine

The latest Mercedes-Benz VLE updates are less about introducing a completely new vehicle and more about expanding what buyers can do with it.

The arrival of the VLE 400 4MATIC brings a significant performance upgrade, while its 654-km claimed range and 2.5-tonne towing capacity make it one of the most versatile configurations in the lineup.

Meanwhile, the expanded equipment packages and newly optional features provide greater freedom to configure the vehicle according to individual requirements.

With its combination of electric range, luxury, passenger capacity, technology and towing capability, the Mercedes-Benz VLE is increasingly shaping up as a premium electric mobility platform rather than simply another electric van.

For buyers searching for a large electric vehicle capable of combining executive comfort with genuine long-distance usability, the VLE 400 4MATIC is likely to be one of the most interesting additions to Mercedes-Benz’s growing electric lineup.

Source: Mercedes-Benz