5 Minutes
An Electric C‑Class Enters the Ring
The 206‑series Mercedes‑Benz C‑Class is due a mid‑cycle update, but Mercedes is already validating a fully electric sibling built on entirely different underpinnings. Spotted testing at the Nürburgring, the 2027 C‑Class with EQ Technology aims to offer a distinct electric experience — avoiding the divisive styling of the EQS and EQE — and is expected to reach showrooms sometime next year.
Design and Exterior Details
Camouflage, Mirrors and Lighting
The prototype carries temporary lighting elements rather than final production clusters, yet it confidently tackles the world’s toughest circuits. Under the wrap, the zero‑emission sedan features door‑mounted side mirrors (the internal‑combustion C‑Class uses A‑pillar mirrors) and a slightly more rounded nose compared with the 206‑series petrol/diesel model. From the C‑pillar rearwards the differences grow more obvious: unique trim pieces, mixed wheel designs front to rear, and revised proportions that hint at bespoke EV aerodynamics.
Photo: SH Proshots
Signature Star Lighting
Expect Mercedes’ new star‑patterned headlights and taillights for the EQ Technology variant, following the brand’s recent design language seen on the redesigned CLA’s electric version. The electric C should present a cleaner, more streamlined silhouette than its four‑cylinder sibling.
Platform, Battery and Charging
Mercedes is equipping the electric C‑Class with its MB.EA electric platform rather than the Mercedes‑Benz Modular Architecture (MMA) used for the CLA. Under the skin the car adopts an 800‑volt electrical architecture and eATS 2.0 electric drive systems — a clear step up from the earlier 400‑volt EQ models.
Hearsay points to a long‑range battery option with a net capacity around 94.5 kWh. That pack is rumored to support ultra‑fast charging, reportedly able to recover roughly 330 km (205 miles) of range in about 10 minutes under ideal conditions. Mercedes is allegedly targeting an ambitious WLTP maximum of around 870 km (540 miles) for the top configuration.
Performance and Powertrain Options
Like the CLA with EQ Technology, the electric C‑Class is expected to be rear‑wheel drive as standard, with dual‑motor all‑wheel drive available. The AMG division is developing its own high‑voltage 800‑volt architecture for performance models; at least two Mercedes‑AMG variants are planned to sit alongside the C 43 and C 63 performance names. There’s speculation the C 63 could switch from its current turbo four‑cylinder to a turbo inline‑six with plug‑in hybrid assistance — possibly related to the E 53 HYBRID’s engine — though Mercedes has not confirmed these details.
Market Positioning and Competition
The electric C‑Class with EQ Technology is being prepared to take on BMW’s upcoming Neue Klasse i3 sedan and other premium electric mid‑sizers. By moving to an 800‑volt system and advanced drive electronics, Mercedes aims to address criticisms leveled at the EQS and EQE regarding architecture choices and charging performance. The MB.EA platform also paves the way for scalable battery, motor and performance options to satisfy both efficiency‑focused customers and AMG buyers seeking high output.
How It Compares to the CLA and Other Mercedes EVs
The CLA with EQ Technology, which uses MMA, showcases how Mercedes can extract long range and rapid DC charging from its EV architectures — recent CLA test figures suggest up to 792 km (492 miles) between charges in ideal conditions and very fast replenishment at high‑power DC chargers. The C‑Class on MB.EA will likely offer a different balance: a more spacious, refined sedan package with a platform tuned for higher volume and AMG performance derivatives.
What to Expect Next
Expect further Nürburgring development footage and incremental reveals through the next year as Mercedes refines the electric C‑Class for production. Key specs to watch: final battery capacities, confirmed WLTP range, official DC charging speeds, and the confirmed line‑up of AMG performance variants. For EV buyers and Mercedes enthusiasts, the 2027 C‑Class with EQ Technology promises to be a pivotal model in the brand’s electric offensive.
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