Mercedes-Benz has been noticed testing a prototype for an electrical compact crossover that can find yourself changing the EQC.

The EQC is the compact crossover whose 2020 debut marked the arrival of Mercedes’ EQ sub-brand for electrical autos. Nonetheless, its foundation on a platform initially developed for gas-powered autos meant its EV credentials had been missing in comparison with the competitors, specifically the Tesla Mannequin Y, and Mercedes finally flipped on its choice to supply it within the U.S.

That will not be the case for the EQC’s successor which can be known as a GLC-Class EV or one thing to that impact to replicate its positioning alongside the GLC-Class vary. Underpinning it’s considered Mercedes’ MMA platform designed primarily for EVs however with help for hybrids.

The platform can be used for autos within the compact section. Above this, Mercedes may have the MB.EA platform for mid- and full-size fashions, the AMG.EA for high-performance fashions from AMG, and the Van.EA for mild industrial autos.

2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class EV spy pictures – Photograph credit score: Baldauf

The arrival of the MMA platform will even see the introduction of Mercedes’ personal working system, dubbed MB.OS. The system may have its personal infotainment and navigation techniques, however will help well-liked options like Google Maps or Apple CarPlay and Android Auto telephone mirroring techniques.

A CLA-Class EV primarily based on the MMA platform can also be out testing and can be previewed with an idea in September on the 2023 Munich auto present.

2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class EV spy pictures – Photograph credit score: Baldauf

Each the CLA-Class EV and the GLC-Class EV are due round 2025, together with within the U.S., that means we must always see them arrive as 2025 or 2026 fashions.

The GLC-Class EV prototype may be seen along with the most recent GLC-Class in a number of the pictures, revealing the same dimension of the autos but in addition the contrasting design. The EV’s roofline slopes extra towards the rear and its entrance finish is exclusive, that includes a sleeker, extra rounded look general in comparison with the common GLC-Class. Search for styling cues to be borrowed from final yr’s Imaginative and prescient EQXX idea automotive.

Mercedes-Benz Imaginative and prescient EQXX

It is not clear what efficiency targets the car has however a variety of no less than 300 miles is probably going.

Different compact EVs that Mercedes is considered planning embody electrical variations of the next-generation CLA-Class Capturing Brake wagon and GLA-Class and GLB-Class crossovers.