Mercedes-Benz introduces electric C-class

The Mercedes-Benz C-class has long been the best selling sedan model in the company’s sedan line-up. The German automaker is aiming to widen the appeal of the mid-size sedan with the introduction of an all-new electric C-Class. Mercedes-Benz is not holding back on its electrification strategy, even though some brands are starting to rethink, and the electric C-class is proof of this. The battery powered C-class will be sold alongside the current generation ICE that it shares its name with.

The all-new electric C‑Class is redefining the mid-size segment for electric vehicles. Customers will get exactly what they expect from this new version of the beloved model: the perfect blend of performance, comfort, dynamics, and intelligence. On top of that, it is the most powerful and sportiest C‑Class we’ve ever built, offering pure driving pleasure and outstanding real-world range – all while being the perfect sanctuary for our customer
– Ola Källenius, chairman of the board of management, Mercedes‑Benz Group AG

Follow Double Apex on Instagram and Facebook where we share more car content.

New Look

The all-new electric C-Class uses the company’s latest design language, already seen elsewhere on the line-up. In fact, the newcomer shares much with the recently launched electric Mercedes-Benz GLC, including the platform that it rides on. Up front there is a near sealed up central grille that is flanked by slim LED headlamps. The overall silhouette mimics that of a coupe, with flowing lines all the way to the rear end. With a drag coefficient of 0,22 Cd, the electric C-class is one of the slipperiest in its segment.

With the all-new electric C‑Class, we have made a profound statement: reinventing classic elegance for the electric age. Its distinctive, coupé-like silhouette, sculpted with taut surfaces and muscular wheel arches, radiates a powerful emotional appeal. From the iconic illuminated grille to the star-design headlights, every detail instantly symbolizes our new era of Mercedes‑Benz
– Bastian Baudy, Chief Design Officer Mercedes-Benz Group AG

Larger Inside

This model rides on a platform that was created purely for electrified models. As a result the wheelbase is almost 100 mm longer than the ICE versions. This means loads more legroom for all occupants. Headroom, too, is said to be plentiful. In addition a panoramic roof is standard fitment across the range. 162 stars are illuminated in the panoramic roof. They take on the colour of the individually selected ambient lighting.

From a UX point of view front occupants can expect a great deal of connectivity and engagement via the latest version of the MBUX system. In addition buyers can opt for the massive Hyperscreen that stretches across the width of the facia. Like its GLC sibling the electric C-Class has a vegan certified interior.

EV Power

There is just one variant at the time of introduction. The C400 4Matic delivers 360 kW of power. A two-speed transmission sends power through all four wheels. Mercedes’ press material says the newcomer can sprint from 0-100 km/h in 4,0 seconds and that it has a range of up to 762 km. Up to 325 km of additional range can be gained after ten minutes of charge time on a high-speed recharging station.

The electric saloon has active rear steering with up to 4,5‑degrees of wheel movement and optional Airmatic air suspension with predictive damping based on Car-to-X and Google Maps data, that is said to make it as comfortable as an S-Class.

Other versions, including rear-wheel driver options with more range, will follow in due course. Local fans looking to get into the electric C-Class will have to wait until some time next year for the SA introduction.