Mercedes-Benz is preparing to expand its line-up from next year with the introduction of the electric-powered C-Class EQ.
The all-new model, which will be twinned with the recently revealed GLC EQ, will sit alongside a facelifted version of the combustion-engined C-Class.
The electric C-Class will be the main rival for BMW’s new electric 3 Series, the i3, which is due on the market at around the same time and with comparable specifications.
Like the GLC, the new C-Class will adopt the German brand’s new ‘Iconic Grille’ design that is being used as a differentiator between ICE and EV models as Mercedes moves away from the distinctive stylings of the first-generation EQ-badged electric models. Each model will wear its own bespoke interpretation of the grille, and Mercedes previewed the C-Class’s design at the Munich motor show.
The C-Class EQ is the second model based on the new MB.EA platform, following the GLC. The 800V electrical architecture will also be used by the E-Class EQ, which is due in 2027.
Mercedes’ new electric saloon is expected to grow beyond the 4751mm length and 1820mm width of the combustion-engined, MRA2-based C-Class, with a longer wheelbase and wider tracks contributing to a more spacious interior. Unlike today’s model, the C-Class EQ will be offered solely as a saloon – no estate version is planned.
Mercedes-Benz sources say rear leg room and head room are both significantly better in the new C-Class EQ – the increased interior space addresses one of the key criticisms of earlier EQ saloons. Boot capacity is also said to be slightly larger than that of today’s C-Class, with additional storage available in a frunk.
Drivetrain hardware is largely shared with the GLC EQ. It will be offered in configurations from a 335bhp single-motor, rear-wheel-drive model to a dual-motor 4Matic with up to 482bhp. The C-Class EQ will be offered with a 94.5kWh NMC battery.
While the GLC offers a top-end range of 435 miles (700km), Mercedes says the sleeker and more aerodynamically effi cient C-Class will arrive with a range of 497 miles (800km).
It will be able to charge at speeds of up to 400kW.
An AMG variant is also in development and set to go on sale in 2027. Using powerful axial-flux motors developed by UK-based Mercedes subsidiary Yasa, total output is tipped to exceed comfortably the 680bhp of the current plug-in hybrid C63 S E Performance.
By
