As per CEO Ola Källenius, Mercedes-Benz is set to introduce electric alternatives within the C-Class and GLC-Class options by 2026, with details emerging during a recent earnings call that discussed the company’s financial performance in the first half of the year. This timeline suggests that these EVs could potentially be introduced as 2027 models in the U.S.
Previous sightings of prototypes for the electric C-Class sedan and electric GLC-Class crossover indicate a distinct design direction, focusing on enhanced aerodynamics in comparison to their traditional gasoline-powered counterparts. Additionally, performance-focused versions of these models are also in the pipeline.
In the earnings call, Källenius confirmed that these vehicles would be based on the latest MB.EA dedicated EV platform, as per a report from Automotive News (subscription required). He also highlighted that the introduction of these electric options is expected to ramp up Mercedes’ EV sales figures, which witnessed a 25% decline year-over-year, dropping from 61,211 units to 45,843.
The MB.EA platform was first disclosed in 2021, with plans for a larger variant named MB.EA Large to serve as the foundation for forthcoming versions of the EQE and EQS models initially in development before being halted earlier this year. Recent reports from Germany suggest Mercedes will opt to enhance the existing EVA2 platform, presently employed in the current EQE and EQS models, instead of proceeding with the MB.EA Large platform. The successor to the EQS is anticipated around 2028, featuring a more conventional sedan silhouette compared to the current model’s distinctive design.
Mercedes’ roadmap also includes the MMA platform intended for compact EVs and hybrids, the AMG.EA platform focused on high-performance EVs, and the Van.EA platform tailored to electric light commercial vehicles. The debut of the MMA platform is scheduled for the following year with the introduction of a CLA-Class EV, while the AMG.EA platform is also poised to reveal a successor to the GT 4-Door Coupe. Prototypes for both models have already been spotted undergoing testing.
While Mercedes previously announced plans to exclusively sell EVs by 2030, slower-than-expected growth in EV demand prompted the automaker in February to prolong the availability of gasoline-powered models well into the upcoming decade. Similarly, Cadillac, which initially aimed for a fully electric lineup by 2030, stated in May that gasoline-powered vehicles may still be part of their portfolio post-2030.
Last month, Porsche revised its target of achieving 80% EV sales by 2030. The company also confirmed that the Cayenne, its top-selling model, will continue to offer gasoline and plug-in hybrid options in the next decade, despite the upcoming launch of an electric Cayenne in the near future.
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