The next step for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class now has a date of arrival, as the next-generation sedan will reportedly launch in 2026 with the option of electric power.
A prototype what was expected to be called the EQC Sedan was spied testing in Sweden earlier this year, though UK publication Auto Express reports it’ll now be a C-Class branded model and sold alongside petrol and diesel variants.
It’s expected the electric C-Class will use a modified version of the Mercedes-Benz EVA2 platform that underpins the current EQE when it launches.
It was initially thought the EQC/electric C-Class would be based on the MB.EA platform, though development was cancelled earlier this year.
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EQC testing 
The MB.EA Large platform specifically was intended replacements for the EQE, EQE SUV, EQS, and EQS SUV, which are now also expected to continue using a developed version of the EVA2 platform.
As the EV platforms under development by Mercedes-Benz are intended solely battery-powered vehicles, the internal combustion engine (ICE) C-Class will remain as it is alongside its electric counterpart.
Auto Express reports the new EQC will likely utilise a lithium-ion battery pack and be driven by a single rear-mounted motor as standard, while there will also be the option to add a front motor to provide an all-wheel drive setup.
AMG C-Class EV 
It’s also possible the new model will be capable of more than 600km on a charge, while also offering a charging speed of 200kW on a DC fast charger as with current cars on the EVA2 platform.
A performance AMG version has also been spied testing, which boasts 21-inch wheels, a wider track, larger air intakes, bigger brakes, and lowered stiff suspension. It’s expected the electric AMG C-Class will offer upwards of 500kW of power, which will be put to the ground via an all-wheel drive system.
The current EQE is offered with a range of powertrain configurations, with lithium-ion battery capacity ranging from 89kWh to 90.5kWh.
EQE 
In its base EQE 300 form, it produces 180kW of power and 550Nm of torque. The 350 bumps that to 215kW and 765Nm, while the AMG EQE 53 boasts 460kW and 950Nm.
Buyers can also opt for the Dynamic Pack, which boosts maximum power to 505kW and torque to 1000Nm.
Non-AMG models have a maximum claimed WLTP range of 508km, while performance versions have 435km. It’s possible the EQC on the same platform will share in similar performance figures.
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