The electric equivalent of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class will appear in 2024 as a Tesla Model 3 fighter

The range of all-electric cars Mercedes-Benz EQ is rapidly expanding to more segments, but the automaker has not yet introduced a direct competitor Tesla Model 3, BMW i4and Polestar 2. That should change in 2024 with the electric equivalent C-Classmost likely named thr EQC sedan, which benefits from the technology demonstrated in EQXX concept.

The smaller electric sedan of the EQ line will not be based on the EVA platform that underpins the closely related EQE and EQS sedans and SUVs, as well as the MRA II platform from the C-Class line-up. Instead, it will reportedly use the upcoming MMA (Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture), which is scheduled to debut in 2024. This platform is the basis “County Luxury” a family of compact models, but it also has the potential to be used in mid-size models and in the “Core Luxury” family. Mercedes CEO Ola Cullenius said MMA would be compatible with vehicles at ICE, but described it as “electric first”, indicating that BEVs are a priority.

See also: Mercedes teases Maybach SL, Speedster SL, EQE SUV and luxury entry-level sedan

Currently, Mercedes does not offer the four-door EV below sedan EQE whose length is 4946 mm (194.7 inches). Thus, the only alternative for those interested in a smaller electrified sedan is the plug-in hybrid C-Class C300e, which has an EV range of 109 km (68 miles), which is very impressive for this segment. However, as reported The carMercedes needs a suitable EV to compete with many competing models from other automakers.

Although a prototype, the Vision EQXX concept, introduced in 2021, is a fully functional and street legal vehicle demonstrated during a recent test run on public roads. The concept was never intended for production, but Mercedes has confirmed that its technology will find its way in future production cars.

In the same context, Mercedes chief technology officer Marcus Schaefer acknowledged that the EQXX looks very close to “the production car we will see in 2024”. While the electric equivalent of the C-Class will likely combine several elements with the EQXX, the production model should be higher for easier entry / exit, have a larger footprint for a more spacious cab and have a more casual style that would satisfy a large customer base. It is also expected that it will receive a new Mercedes-Benz operating system (MB.OS), which will increase connectivity.

In terms of transmission, the MMA-based model is likely to be equipped with a new type of efficient electric motors and batteries with increased power density. These features combined with weight loss measures and a very aerodynamic shape can lead to one of the highest electrical ranges in the segment, though not as impressive as 1,008 km (626 miles), a proven real-world EQXX concept. This will also allow the model to be fairly fast in terms of rectilinear characteristics and possibly serve as a basis for a hotter version of the AMG.

We’ll learn more about rival Tesla Model 3 under the Mercedes brand next year as we approach its 2024 debut. We assume that masked prototypes can be spotted no later than 2023, giving us a hint of the silhouette of the new EV. By 2025, each model in the Mercedes-Benz line will have an electric equivalent.