Mercedes-Benz cancels next-generation EV platform’s development amid poor market performance

ABU DHABI: Mercedes-Benz has halted the development of a new platform designed for full-size and mid-size electric vehicles, aligning with the company’s strategy to reduce spending in the electric vehicle segment due to a decline in sales.

The MB.EA platform announced in 2021 marked the brand’s commitment to transitioning to electric vehicles exclusively by 2030. However, in February Mercedes-Benz announced that due to lower-than-anticipated electric vehicle sales, it had abandoned this plan. The company will continue offering traditional gas-engine vehicles into the next decade.

Mercedes-Benz initially planned the MB.EA platform’s two versions: MB.EA Large and MB.EA Small. The MB.EA Medium for the EQC sedan and SUV, and MB.EA Large for the larger EQE and EQS models. However, the MB.EA Large platform has now been cancelled and the automaker will focus on updating the existing EVA2 platform for the successors of the EQE and EQS. The EQS successor is anticipated around 2028 and it will have a conventional sedan design.

A few prominent modifications expected in the EVA2 platform include more efficient electric motors and new battery cell technology for increased range. Alongside the MB.EA Medium, the automaker is planning to develop the MB.AMG (sports cars), MMA (for compact EVs) and MB.VAN (commercial vehicle) platforms.

The recent changes to Mercedes-Benz’s electric vehicle strategy follow the delay of its aim to achieve a 50% electrified car share between 2025 and 2030. Additionally, the automaker has revised its plans to offer electric vehicles exclusively in specific markets by 2030.

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