Mercedes' new luxury van looks like it came from the future

The Vision V concept is a preview of what's to come from Mercedes.

When was the last time you saw a concept van? It's been a while, but luxury vans aren't dead yet, and Mercedes wants to take them to a whole new level.

It's the Vision V concept - a vehicle that could represent the future of ultra-luxury Mercedes-style travel, reports the Telegraph.

The Vision V was just unveiled at the Shanghai Auto Show, and yes, Mercedes is pitching it as a luxury vehicle.

According to a press release, the Vision V is “the pinnacle of luxurious and elegant multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs), aimed at exceeding the highest expectations of customers.”

There's no wine cooler inside, so we think Rolls-Royce might have something to say on the subject. But then again, Rolls-Royce doesn't make vans.

The Vision V, however, has a large 65-inch retractable 4K screen. It also comes with a 42-speaker Dolby Atmos surround system, which can be used to watch movies or play video games.

If that's not enough for you, the seats have built-in devices that provide tactile feedback in line with the sound you're listening to.

It seems like the future of luxury travel is more like a house party than an afternoon nap.

However, if you wish, you can take a nap. A glass partition separates the “lounge” from the driver’s cabin and can be made transparent or frosted for privacy as needed.

The seats are electrically adjustable and configurable, and there's even a "refined aroma" in the bottle that further adds to the experience.

In addition, you can also create a chess set if you like to play something quieter and more peaceful.

Up front, the van actually looks very close to production.

The seats and abundance of white are still present, but in contrast to the large Mercedes "Superscreen" that stretches across the entire dashboard.

Vision V, however, is not an autonomous abstract concept from the distant future.

Mercedes says this is the introduction of its modular electric vehicle platform, Van Electric Architecture (VAN.EA), which will launch in 2026.

There is no specific information about the engine of this concept, other than that it is an electric car, nor whether its interesting design will fully transition into series production.

However, this marks the beginning of a new direction when it comes to luxury limousine transportation in Mercedes – and vans in general.

The Vision V concept is on display at the current Shanghai Auto Show, which will run in the Chinese city until May 2. /Telegraph/