Mercedes-Benz has reportedly scrapped its next-generation electric vehicle (EV) platform, MB.EA Large, which was poised to underpin future models like the EQE and EQS replacements. This decision, reported by the German publication Handelsblatt, comes in response to underwhelming sales figures for its current EV lineup, highlighting a critical reassessment of the brand’s electric strategy.
The MB.EA Large platform was expected to debut in 2028, heralding a new era of Mercedes-Benz luxury EVs with advanced technologies inspired by the Vision EQXX concept. However, insiders reveal that the platform’s development has been halted due to sluggish sales of the existing EQE, EQE SUV, EQS, and EQS SUV models. The move is expected to save the company between €4 billion and €6 billion (approximately $6.51bn to $9.77bn) in development costs and production upgrades.
Instead of pursuing the ambitious MB.EA Large project, Mercedes-Benz will focus on enhancing its current Electric Vehicle Architecture (EVA2), which supports the existing EQE and EQS models. This strategic pivot will involve upgrading to an 800V electrical architecture, improving electric motor efficiency, and incorporating new battery cell technology to boost performance and appeal.
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Despite the cancellation of the MB.EA Large platform, Mercedes-Benz is not retreating from the EV market entirely. The company will continue to develop other next-generation platforms, including the MB.EA Medium platform, which will underpin the forthcoming EQC and EQC SUV. Additionally, platforms like MB.AMG for sports cars and MB.VAN for commercial vehicles remain on track for launches in 2025 and 2026, respectively.
This latest development comes on the heels of Mercedes-Benz’s decision earlier this year to delay its ambitious target for EVs and plug-in hybrids to constitute 50% of global vehicle sales from 2025 to 2030. The company had initially planned to transition exclusively to electric platforms by 2025, but this timeline has now been adjusted in response to market realities and consumer demand.
By halting the MB.EA Large platform, Mercedes-Benz is making a pragmatic choice, realigning its investments to better suit current market conditions. Ola Källenius, the CEO of Mercedes-Benz, emphasized the company’s flexible approach, ensuring the continuation of both electric and combustion-engined vehicles for the foreseeable future.
“Mercedes-Benz will consistently create the preconditions for a CO2-neutral new car fleet by 2039,” stated the company. “The pace of transformation is determined by market conditions and the needs of our customers. We will build the perfect Mercedes for every customer request.”
Mercedes-Benz’s decision underscores a broader industry trend where automakers are re-evaluating their EV strategies amid fluctuating market conditions. The company’s commitment to enhancing its current platforms and maintaining a diverse portfolio ensures it can adapt to evolving consumer preferences without overextending its resources.
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While the MB.EA Large platform’s cancellation marks a significant shift, Mercedes-Benz remains steadfast in its long-term vision for electrification. The company plans to roll out a range of Entry Luxury models on the new MMA platform, designed to support both combustion and electric powertrains, showcasing its commitment to offering versatile and high-tech vehicles.
“The pace of transformation is determined by market conditions and the needs of our customers. We will build the perfect Mercedes for every customer request. Into the 2030s, we can flexibly offer vehicles with both a fully electric drivetrain or an electrified high-tech combustion engine.
“To achieve this, we made our production flexible in terms of drive systems. For the further development of our product portfolio, we will sustainably leverage efficiencies between new and existing models. All new models from Mercedes-Benz will meet the highest demands of our customers.”
source topgear