Mercedes to Discontinue EQE Limousine and SUV Models by 2026
In a significant shift for the automotive industry, Mercedes-Benz has announced plans to discontinue the production of its EQE electric car series. The decision, which has not been officially confirmed by the company, comes as Mercedes looks to focus on developing a battery variant of the E-Class and a new electric GLC.
Initially, the EQE series was slated for an expected facelift with the improved EVA platform in 2026. However, only the EQS will be upgraded, with the EQE models set to end production in 2023.
Despite the EQE vehicles having undergone continuous development, with technical updates such as a heat pump, a separable front motor for all-wheel-drive models, and an increased battery capacity of 96 kWh, Mercedes has reportedly decided not to invest further in the series due to lower sales.
The distinctive design of the EQ electric sub-brand may have contributed to the lower sales of the EQE sedan and EQE SUV. As Mercedes moves forward, it aims for its electric vehicles to resemble their regular counterparts more closely in appearance.
The EQE models, however, will not be directly replaced. Instead, Mercedes is focusing on the development of a battery variant of the E-Class. This new model is expected to offer improved space utilization, higher everyday practicality, and a suspension on the same technical level as the current EQE models.
In a positive move for Mercedes, the new electric GLC will be unveiled at the IAA in Munich in September. This new model will offer 570 liters of trunk space and an additional 128 liters in the frunk. Moreover, the towing capacity of the new electric GLC is higher at 2,500 kilograms.
Meanwhile, the first fully electric C-Class is expected to be introduced next year. This model will be introduced as an electric vehicle on the new 800-volt MB.EA-M platform. The EQE models' lack of technological advantage over the upcoming electric car versions of the C-Class and GLC may have played a role in the decision to discontinue the EQE series.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Mercedes-Benz is adapting to meet the changing demands of the market. The production stop of the EQE electric vehicle models in 2026 marks a new chapter for the company, with a focus on the E-Class battery variant and the new electric GLC.
