The next-generation Mercedes-Benz EQC electric SUV has been spied undergoing testing in Germany ahead of its expected reveal during 2025.
The new luxury electric SUV from the Three-Pointed Star will go head-to-head with the forthcoming BMW electric SUV that’s based on the new Neue Klasse architecture, as well as the upcoming Audi Q6 e-tron.
Unlike the current-generation Mercedes-Benz EQC which is based on the previous-generation GLC’s internal-combustion platform, it’s understood this new-generation model will be based on the new all-electric MB.EA platform that will underpin all medium to large vehicles.
Given this new Mercedes-Benz EQC will be based on an all-electric platform, this theoretically means there will be a longer wheelbase and shorter overhangs for greater interior space.
It’s understood the new GLC will still form as an all-electric counterpart to the GLC and slot underneath the existing EQE SUV and EQS SUV.
It’s unclear, however if Mercedes-Benz intends to make a sedan counterpart to the EQC. If this is the case, the new electric SUV could therefore be called EQC SUV.
There’s precedent for this naming structure with the EQE and EQE SUV, as well as the EQS and EQS SUV.
In terms of exterior design, this spied prototype has a similarly curvaceous body to the EQE SUV and EQS SUV.
There are few in the way of creases around the prototype, with highlight exterior design features including retractable door handles, side steps, and a panoramic glass sunroof.
It appears the headlights and tail lights on this spied prototype are dummy units. We’ll have to wait a bit to see another prototype with the production headlight and tail lights.
We’ve yet to see any imagery of this new EQC’s interior, but we can expect it to follow similar themes to other recent Mercedes-Benz products.
At this stage Mercedes-Benz hasn’t publicly detailed any information about the next-generation EQC’s electric motor or battery setups. Automotive News reports however it will have a range of 482km.
As reported by Automotive News, this new-generation EQC will be produced in the US at the company’s production plant near Vance, Alabama from the first quarter of 2026. This facility currently produces the Mercedes-Benz GLE, GLS, EQE SUV, and EQS SUV.
In order to make room for production of the new Mercedes-Benz EQC, the company is reportedly going to shift production of the flagship EQS SUV to its plant in Bremen, Germany when the next-generation model debuts in the second half of this decade.
AutoForecast Solutions forecasts Mercedes-Benz will produce 50,000 examples this new EQC electric SUV in this first year of manufacturing. This is more than double the EQS SUV’s current production volume.
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