Mercedes-Benz is putting the next-generation electric E-Class through its paces at the Nürburgring circuit as it prepares for a 2027 debut. The company is focusing on improving chassis comfort and boosting the car’s electric range, aiming to avoid the mixed reception of the outgoing EQE model.
Prototype Shows Design Cues and Focus on Comfort
The electric E-Class prototype spotted at Nürburgring is nearly 5.1 meters long and heavily camouflaged, but some details are visible. The front features sleek headlights with the signature Mercedes star inside the light clusters, a styling element shared across recent electric models. At the back, thin horizontal taillights pay homage to the classic 190E, resembling earlier Mercedes sedan lighting.
Mercedes is keeping parts of the side profile a secret, including whether the rear pillar will have a window design similar to the new electric C-Class or a semicircular element common to other sedans in its lineup.
Interior and Technology Expected to Advance MBUX and Driving Aids
The cabin remains fully covered during testing, but insiders expect it will carry over the triple-screen layout seen in the CLA and GLC electric models. The infotainment system is likely to be an evolved version of Mercedes’ MBUX software, accompanied by extensive driver assistance features, which may include level 3 autonomous driving on highways.
Focus on Long Range and Fast Charging
The electric E-Class will ride on Mercedes’ new MB.EA-M platform, supporting an 800-volt architecture paired with high-capacity lithium-ion batteries. Reports suggest a battery capacity could approach 150 kWh, enabling a claimed range of around 1,000 kilometers, significantly more than current electric Mercedes vehicles like the GLC SUV, which offers up to 713 km WLTP with a 94 kWh battery.
Charging speeds are expected to reach up to 330 kW, allowing the battery to recharge from 10% to 80% in just over 20 minutes. Achieving this range will depend on advanced aerodynamics and efficient energy use.
Launch Plans and Pricing Outlook
Mercedes plans to offer the electric E-Class with multiple powertrain options, including single and dual-motor setups and 4MATIC all-wheel drive versions. After extensive road testing, including further Nürburgring runs and winter trials to validate performance and thermal comfort, the E-Class EV is scheduled for its official debut by mid-2027. It should reach dealerships in 2028.
Pricing is expected to start above €70,000 in Spain before any government incentives, similar to the EQE’s launch pricing pattern.
With these developments, Mercedes aims to deliver a more refined and competitive electric sedan that better meets customer expectations than its predecessor.
Source: motor.es