Mercedes-Benz has created quite a stir in the automotive world in the past week, after announcing that they’ve decided to halt the development of a brand-new EV platform. Their MB.EA (Mercedes-Benz Electric Architecture) was due to be ready to be utilised in larger electric vehicles by 2028 but has since been halted.
Handelsblatt reported that the move came about as a result of slower-than-expected sales of their current high-end electric models such as the EQE and EQS, despite the platform set to bring about key technologies that had been previewed by their Vision EQXX vehicle. The sales levels have prompted Mercedes to have to rethink it’s future EV strategy entirely.
The MB.EA platform was initially designed and under development to underpin medium to large electric vehicles, with the largest version meant for the S-Class, GLS, E-Class, and GLE models. However, with lower-than-expected market performance and high development costs estimated in the £3-5 billion range, Mercedes has chosen to shift its focus and change direction entirely to create a more effective plan for the future. Reports suggest that they plan to continue utilising the existing EVA2 platform, which supports the current EQE and EQS models, but with the possibility of upgrading it to a more advanced 800-volt system in the future.
This shift is a strategic move on Mercedes’ part, showcasing a broader change in the overall direction the manufacturer had chosen to go in terms of their electric vehicles. We can expect to see plans that emphasise a balance between developing new, technologically improved electric vehicles and improvements to the lifespan and emissions from their traditional combustion engines. Such a balance will offer Mercedes and its customers better access to a wider market of vehicles, ensuring that market demands can be met while they work at enhancing the future of electric vehicles.
While Mercedes-Benz remains committed to an electric future, the pace and strategy of this transition will be more flexible and adaptive to market conditions than previously envisioned. Our dedication to providing reliable and trustworthy Mercedes repairs and maintenance is as strong as ever, and we plan to keep on top of any changes to the systems as the years progress.
If your vehicle is in need of some TLC in the meantime, we are on hand to help. Simply get in touch with a member of our team to book your car in with us, today.
