Mercedes-Benz has been spotted testing prototypes for an electric sedan that's set to join an expanded C-Class family.
As the spy shots reveal, the styling will be different than the gas-powered C-Class sedan, which arrived in the U.S. in its current form for the 2022 model year.
In addition to helping distinguish the electric C-Class from its gas-powered sibling, the unique styling should also enhance aerodynamic efficiency, which is crucial for range.
A similar strategy is planned for an electric crossover set to join an expanded GLC-Class family. Prototypes for the electric GLC-Class have also been spotted.
2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class EV spy shots - Photo credit: Baldauf
The prototypes for the electric C-Class are heavily camouflaged but the design is likely to have been influenced by Mercedes' Concept CLA-Class shown during the 2023 Munich auto show, which is a direct preview of an electric member of the next-generation CLA-Class family. Prototypes for the electric CLA-Class are also out testing.
The platform of the C-Class EV will be the new MB.EA. Below this, Mercedes has the MMA platform for compact EVs and hybrids, the AMG.EA for high-performance models from AMG, and the Van.EA for light commercial vehicles. There was also going to be an MB.EA Large platform, though Mercedes has stopped work on the platform.
Mercedes hasn't provided any specifications for vehicles based on the MB.EA platform, though a range of 300 miles or more is almost certain for at least one version of the electric C-Class or possibly all. It should also feature an 800-volt electrical architecture, which will make rapid charging possible when using a DC fast-charger.
The electric C-Class is currently expected to start sales in 2026. That's about when the electric GLC-Class is due. After the regular electric C-Class is launched, an AMG-tuned version should follow in quick succession.
