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W520 Mercedes-Benz C-Class debuts as an EV: Largest dashboard display, up to 800 km WLTP

Mercedes-Benz has officially unveiled the first all-electric iteration of its best-selling C-Class.

Developed on a brand-new EV-specific architecture, the all-new W520-generation C-Class introduces advanced 800-volt charging technology, AI-driven digital ecosystems, and a significantly expanded interior footprint.

At launch, the lineup is headlined by the all-wheel-drive C400 4MATIC, which features a permanently excited synchronous motor (PSM) and an innovative two-speed transmission on the rear axle.

  • Performance: The C400 4MATIC produces 360 kW, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 4.0 seconds
  • Battery & Range: Equipped with a 94-kWh (usable) lithium-ion battery, delivering a WLTP range of up to 762 km. A future rear-wheel-drive variant is expected to target an 800 km WLTP range
  • Charging: Utilizes an 800-volt electrical architecture supporting DC fast charging up to 330 kW. The vehicle can recoup up to 325 km of range in just 10 minutes. It also supports bidirectional charging
  • Efficiency: Features a multi-source heat pump and a one-box braking system capable of up to 300 kW of recuperation

To balance driving dynamics and long-distance comfort, the electric W520 C-Class is equipped with advanced chassis technologies:

  • Suspension: Optional Airmatic air suspension features intelligent, predictive damping that utilizes Car-to-X and Google Maps data to pre-adjust for road imperfections and optimize ride height for aerodynamics.
  • Maneuverability: Features 4.5-degree rear-axle steering, reducing the turning circle to 11.2 meters.

The design adopts a coupé-like silhouette optimized for electric range, achieving a highly efficient drag coefficient starting at 0.22. Visual signatures include a new illuminated grille, flush-fitting door handles, and star-design LED lighting signatures at both the front and rear.

The purpose-built EV architecture allows for a wheelbase 97 mm longer than the outgoing, W206 C-Class, significantly increasing cabin space.

  • Storage: Cargo capacity is rated at 470 liters in the rear boot, supplemented by a 101-liter front boot (frunk)
  • Displays: The cabin is dominated by an optional 39.1-inch MBUX Hyperscreen, featuring matrix backlight technology with over 1,000 individual LEDs
  • MB.OS & Artificial Intelligence: The infotainment system is powered by the new Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS). The MBUX Virtual Assistant utilizes a multi-agent AI approach integrating ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing, and Google Gemini for complex, conversational interactions
  • Materials: Following the GLC, the new C-Class is the brand’s second vehicle to offer a fully certified vegan interior
  • Roof: The optional Sky Control panoramic roof features dimmable glass divided into nine independently switchable segments

“The all-new electric C-Class is redefining the mid-size segment for electric vehicles,” said Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management, Mercedes-Benz Group AG. “Customers will get exactly what they expect from this new version of the beloved model: the perfect blend of performance, comfort, dynamics, and intelligence. On top of that, it is the most powerful and sportiest C-Class we’ve ever built, offering pure driving pleasure and outstanding real-world range.”

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