Mercedes EV problem.
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Mercedes has a big problem with their current EV lineup. While the top 2 images show what a future Mercedes compact EV sedan and SUV could look like, the 2 spy shots show what’s actually coming in the real world. And all I see is even more problems for Mercedes.
While EV sales in the US went up 11% in 2024 compared to 2023, the Mercedes EV lineup went down 30%. That’s quite a problem.
As soon as they came out, they were pretty well reviewed for their comfort, but criticized for their design. Some think they look too conservative while others see them as too weird to be real Mercedes models. It seems almost no one likes them. The only thing Mercedes has done so far is adding chrome strips to the front end of the EQS sedan for the 2025 model year.
And that of course will not be enough. It seems they have at least 2 new EV sedan models coming up. One is based on the Concept CLA we saw a few months ago. And the other one is some sort of a C-Class EV sedan. Which could of course overlap anyway and end up being just plain confusing.
These things need to look more special and expensive. The EQE is probably a nice sedan, but does it really look better than a Honda Accord? At least outside. For over twice the price.
Lately, they’ve added their logo all over their cars. The rear lights are now in the shape of the Mercedes 3-point star. These are also populating their SUV grilles. Tons of little star-shaped lights. The CLA EV looks like even its front LEDs will have the same shape.
Gimmicks like these will not replace an attractive or impressive design. Their EV lineup needs something much more dynamic and special. The new compact sedans coming up will be smaller, but they won’t be inexpensive. The EQE sedan starts at over $74,000. (However, you can pick up a slightly used 2023 model for under $40,000. And a 2022 EQS for about the same price!)
The new compact could still be priced at well over $55,000. And again, not look that great…
It’s not really an EV problem either. As mentioned above EV sales have grown by 11% in the US. And even BMW has seen a 19% increase in their EV sales in 2024.
It looks like it’s going to take Mercedes some time before they offer some truly stunning-looking EVs…
MB has already stated that next-generation cars will be one platform, and one design with a choice of EV, hybrid or ICE. These programs were too far along to change. The first car with this new platform will be the next S Class which should arrive in three years.
If MB would only produce their concept cars instead of just showing them. That top pic would be a seller.
I hate the logos in lights. It’s so tacky