Mercedes-Benz has begun testing a new car set to phase out the old C-Class, Carscoops reports posting the first bunch of spy shots. The official reveal will likely not take place until late 2024.
According to unofficial reports, the German automaker is building its electric C-Class successor on a platform called MMA, which is still in development. It has originally been designed with smaller electric cars in mind, but can theoretically support IC engines with a few modifications.
In all likelihood, the newcomer will inherit the successful design and technological solutions from the EQXX Concept. The automaker confirmed earlier that it had no intention to produce the EQXX as is, instead focusing on using it as a test platform for other production cars. For one thing, it promised it around 500 km (310 miles) of range, and that’s what the C-Class successor could end up with.
Based on the images, the test car has its own, distinct front end and overall body outlines not very similar to those of the current C-Class. It has an elongated hood and a short trunk and resembles a liftback more than it does a sedan.
You may be wondering why we are avoiding calling it ‘EQC’, like some earlier rumors suggested. The truth is, Mercedes-Benz insiders said the company wasn’t happy with choosing the ‘EQ’ abbreviation for its EV lineup and was going to retire it by the end of 2024 – just in time for the electric C-Class to ship. The car still has no official name, but we expect it to be different than ‘EQC’.
