Presentation of the Mercedes C-Class electric: the baby has grown up

Mercedes-Benz is taking a two-pronged approach to the electric future. While the conventionally powered models will continue to be produced, the successors with electric drive will reach customers. And the C-Class, one of Stuttgart's best-selling model series, will soon be launched as a fully electric model, almost matching the dimensions of the E-Class. With a length of 4.88 meters, the electric C-Class is 13 centimeters longer than the combustion version and a manageable six centimeters shorter than the E-Class. There is no question that the "baby Benz" has grown up.

The unmistakable distinguishing features of the new model are the massive front section with 1,050 illuminated dots and the coupé-like hatchback, which conceals a 470-liter luggage compartment. Like its predecessors, the new design of the electric C-Class again adopts elements from the company's top-of-the-range models, in this case the EQS. The developers were not only inspired by the S-Class in terms of design, but also by the top-of-the-range saloon in other respects. Mercedes then also promises "smooth handling like an S-Class on long journeys". The 4.5-degree rear-axle steering and the Airmatic air suspension, which offers predictive damping and, according to a brand spokesperson, "turns the electric saloon into an extremely agile cornering car", contribute to this.

It is not only the exterior design that borrows from the larger models, the interior is also designed accordingly and is significantly more spacious thanks to a wheelbase that has grown by almost ten centimetres. The standard panoramic roof also improves headroom at the front and rear and, for an extra charge, the incidence of light can be adjusted to suit individual requirements. Together with the ambient lighting, 162 stars shine above the occupants at night if required. As in the EQS, the (optional) 99.3-centimetre hyperscreen extends across the entire width of the interior. At the same time, analog switches make operation easier.

New seats have been developed for the person behind the wheel and their companions, which adapt to their personal needs. There is also a massage function over the entire surface of the backrest and seat ventilation. The materials chosen are - no surprise - of a high quality and, as with the GLC, the new C-Class can also be delivered to customers with a vegan-certified interior on request. When it comes to climate control, the electric C-Class is one of the fast heaters. When driving in the cold, Mercedes promises that the interior will heat up twice as quickly as in conventionally powered models. For fans of high-quality musical experiences, Mercedes offers "active ambient lighting with sound visualization". The beat sequences generate rapid light changes, and with the optional Burmester sound system, the music can also be felt physically via two structure-borne sound transducers in the backrests of the front seats.

The C 400 4Matic, which will be in dealerships at the start of sales, is powered by a 360 kW electric motor, which is supplied with energy by a 94 kWh battery. Together with the 800-volt technology, a range of up to 350 kilometers can be charged within ten minutes. In total, Mercedes promises a range of up to 762 kilometers, also thanks to the Cw value of 0.22. From a standstill, 100 km/h is reached in four seconds and the top speed is 210 km/h. Mercedes reports consumption of 14.1 to 18.5 kWh. The saloon is also prepared for bidirectional charging, transforming it into an energy storage unit on wheels.

Like the EQS, the electric C-Class is equipped with a two-speed gearbox on the rear axle, with first gear being responsible for acceleration and second gear for power delivery at high speeds. Like the combustion engine version, the electric C-Class also comes to customers with a full range of assistance systems. This includes the Distronic distance assistant, and up to 27 cameras support the driver behind the wheel. The saloon is currently the only version of the electric C-Class. It has not yet been decided whether an estate version will be launched at a later date. (aum)