Electric Cars

Ford's 2027 Super Duty series receives notable upgrades, broadening the appeal of its robust trucks. These enhancements include offering the popular Tremor package and a new 35-inch tire Off-Road package on the entry-level XL trim, catering to a wider range of off-road enthusiasts and professionals. Additionally, the F-350, F-450, and F-550 chassis cab variants will now be available in the high-end Platinum trim, providing luxury options for commercial applications. These strategic additions reflect Ford's commitment to responding to customer feedback and diversifying its heavy-duty truck offerings.

Expanded Off-Road Prowess for the Super Duty XL

Ford is significantly boosting the off-road capabilities of its 2027 Super Duty XL models by making the highly sought-after Tremor package more widely available and introducing a new Off-Road package featuring 35-inch tires. This move allows buyers of the base XL trim, particularly when combined with the STX Appearance package, to access advanced off-road features previously limited to higher trims. The Tremor package now includes 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac tires, a lifted suspension, an electronic locking rear differential, skid plates, Trail Control, and a Rock Crawl mode. Furthermore, Ford has listened to customer demand by making the Tremor package available on crew-cab models with the longer eight-foot cargo bed, enhancing utility without compromising off-road readiness.

The introduction of the XL Off-Road 35-Inch Tire package addresses the need for even greater ground clearance and ruggedness among specific professional users, such as arborists, forestry workers, and mining engineers. This new package not only includes chunkier 35-inch tires but also features a taller ride height, a limited-slip front differential, an electronic locking rear differential, upgraded dampers, Trail Control, Trail Turn Assist, Rock Crawl mode, and skid plates for critical components like the transfer case and fuel tank. The existing Off-Road package for the XL trim has been rebranded to specify its inclusion of 33-inch tires, providing clear distinctions for customers seeking varying levels of off-road performance. These additions underscore Ford's dedication to providing purpose-built solutions for diverse heavy-duty truck requirements, from adventurous recreational use to demanding vocational tasks.

Luxury Meets Utility in Chassis Cab Models

For the 2027 model year, Ford is elevating the interior experience of its F-350, F-450, and F-550 chassis cab models by making the top-tier Platinum trim available. This enhancement directly responds to customer requests for more luxurious options in heavy-duty trucks that are often customized for specialized commercial applications. Historically, chassis cab vehicles have prioritized functionality and durability, but with the introduction of the Platinum trim, professionals can now enjoy premium materials, advanced technology, and refined comfort features typically found in high-end consumer trucks. This strategic offering recognizes that even work vehicles can benefit from an elevated cabin environment, providing a more comfortable and sophisticated workspace for drivers who spend extended periods on the road.

The availability of the Platinum trim on chassis cab Super Duty models represents a significant shift in market approach, blending robust utility with upscale amenities. Customers, particularly those operating in industries where long hours and demanding conditions are common, have expressed a desire for vehicles that offer both exceptional capability and enhanced driver comfort. The Platinum trim is expected to include premium leather upholstery, advanced infotainment systems, sophisticated driver-assist technologies, and other high-end finishes that transform the interior from a purely functional space into a luxurious sanctuary. This move not only broadens the appeal of the Super Duty chassis cab lineup but also sets a new standard for luxury in the heavy-duty commercial vehicle segment, proving that performance and pampering can coexist. Order books for the 2027 Super Duty, including these new configurations, are slated to open in May, with specific pricing details to follow closer to the official launch date.

Mercedes-Benz is poised to elevate the minivan segment with the introduction of the all-new 2028 VLE-class, an electric vehicle designed to offer unparalleled luxury and performance for the American market. This sophisticated minivan, distinct from conventional family haulers, is set to attract affluent families and high-end chauffeuring services seeking an exquisite and environmentally conscious mode of transport. With its striking design and advanced features, the VLE-class represents a fusion of Mercedes-Benz's renowned engineering prowess and a forward-looking approach to electric mobility, establishing a new benchmark in the luxury van category.

The arrival of the 2028 Mercedes-Benz VLE-class marks a pivotal moment for luxury electric vehicles in the United States. This vehicle is crafted to captivate those who desire more than just utility, offering an indulgent experience that transcends the ordinary minivan. Its design showcases a harmonious blend of elegance and functionality, while its electric powertrain promises efficiency and exhilarating performance. The VLE-class is not merely a mode of transportation; it is a statement of sophisticated taste and a commitment to sustainable yet luxurious travel.

Introducing the Electric VLE-Class: Design and Powertrain Innovations

The 2028 Mercedes-Benz VLE-class is poised to redefine the luxury minivan landscape in the United States, offering a compelling alternative to conventional options. This all-electric model differentiates itself with a sophisticated aesthetic and advanced features, catering to a clientele that values both elegance and environmental consciousness. Designed to be considerably more upscale than typical family vans, the VLE-class is expected to appeal to discerning families and high-end chauffeuring services, setting new standards for electric mobility in its segment. Its arrival signifies Mercedes-Benz's commitment to expanding its electric vehicle portfolio with a focus on spacious and premium offerings.

The VLE-class will debut with two distinct electric powertrains to meet varying performance needs: a 268-horsepower front-wheel-drive configuration known as the VLE300, and a more potent 409-horsepower all-wheel-drive variant, the VLE400. Both versions promise smooth, responsive acceleration characteristic of electric vehicles. A crucial element of its design is the modular Van.EA platform, which underpins the vehicle and contributes to its generous dimensions, measuring approximately 209 inches in length. This is a few inches longer than many US-spec minivans, enhancing interior space and comfort. Visually, the VLE-class makes a bold statement with prominent design elements such as the large, luxurious grille adorned with the iconic three-pointed star emblem, which emerges gracefully from the hood. The exterior is further enhanced by 22-inch AMG monoblock wheels, with 19- and 21-inch options also available, adding to its commanding presence and elegant profile. Illuminated accents around the grille and integrated into the headlights, which also incorporate the brand’s star motif as daytime running lights, ensure the VLE-class is unmistakable on the road, day or night.

Range, Trims, and Intelligent Features of the 2028 VLE-Class

Every 2028 Mercedes-Benz VLE-class sold in the United States will be equipped with a robust 115-kWh battery pack, providing an estimated driving range of up to approximately 370 miles on a single charge. This impressive range is complemented by rapid charging capabilities, with DC fast-charging speeds peaking at an efficient 300 kW, ensuring minimal downtime for recharging. The VLE-class will be offered in three distinct trim levels, including the sport-oriented AMG Line, which boasts a more aggressive front fascia and sophisticated black exterior trim, appealing to those who desire a more dynamic aesthetic.

Beyond its impressive powertrain and range, the VLE-class incorporates intelligent features designed to enhance both comfort and convenience. An available air suspension system allows for dynamic adjustments to the vehicle's ride height, which can be raised or lowered by 1.5 inches. This innovative system can be controlled intuitively through voice commands or integrated with the navigation system, adapting the vehicle's stance to optimize driving conditions or passenger access. While specific pricing details for the 2028 VLE-class have not yet been released, Mercedes-Benz is expected to announce this information closer to the vehicle's market launch in the United States, anticipated sometime next year. The combination of an extensive electric range, diverse trim options, and smart technological integrations positions the VLE-class as a frontrunner in the luxury electric minivan segment, promising an elevated driving and passenger experience.