The C-Class Electric’s figure isn’t as impressive, but just like the new GLC Electric, there’s a 94.5kWh battery sending power to a dual-motor set up for a range of 472 miles in C 400 guise. Comparisons will be made with the new BMW i3, which also launched with a dual-motor and 559 miles of range, although that car has a larger 112kWh battery. Mercedes also says there will be a less powerful single-motor version of the C-Class Electric, which will provide up to around 497 miles. “Various battery variants” will arrive in 2026, too, which we expect to be smaller-battery models with less range at a lower price point.
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The C-Class Electric will have a 330kW maximum charge rate, thanks to its 800V architecture. Rather than claiming a 10 to 80 per cent top-up time, Mercedes says 198 miles can be added in 10 minutes.
Unlike early versions of the CLA, which sits on another new Mercedes platform called ‘MMA’, the C-Class Electric is offered with an optional DC converter so it can charge at 400V fast-charging stations.
If you can’t wait for the Mercedes C-Class Electric to arrive, you can a buy a new petrol or diesel-powered Mercedes C-Class with up £3,500 off through our Buy a Car service
How fast is the new Mercedes C-Class Electric?
Jörg Burzer, Mercedes chief technology officer, says the C-Class Electric is the “sportiest C-Class we have ever built”. It certainly has enough oomph, because it’s powered by the same 482bhp dual-motor system as the one fitted to the GLC Electric, so the C-Class Electric sprints from 0-62mph in 4.1 seconds. Acceleration figures for its BMW i3 rival haven’t been revealed yet, although the Mercedes should be the quicker car, because it has 20bhp more and an expected lower kerbweight. The upcoming single-motor, rear-wheel drive variant will have less power.