Look out BMW i3: Mercedes-Benz C-Class Electric is here

Mercedes-Benz is doubling down on its push for electric vehicles (EVs). But instead of making a standalone name & platform like the EQE and EQS from before, the brand with the three-pointed star is moving towards a new direction with its EVs.

This is the all-new 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Electric, and it's aiming against the likes of the recently launched BMW i3. While it still looks like a C-Class, the all-new EV features a more coupe-like profile to give it more range, a closed-off grille, and plenty of new technologies.

Starting with its design, the C-Class Electric features a unique grille that comes with 1,050 individual lighting elements that make the sedan stand out. Meanwhile, the LED headlights come with integrated LED daytime running lights that are in the shape of the brand's three-pointed star. As mentioned earlier, the C-Class Electric is one of the most aerodynamic Mercedes-Benz vehicles yet, thanks to its 0.22 cd drag coefficient.

Perhaps serving as the most striking exterior feature of the C-Class Electric is its radical rear. With a fastback-like design that complements the coupe-like shape, along with the four round taillights, the C-Class Electric looks sporty and sophisticated. They are then accompanied by muscular shoulder lines on the roofline, a ducktail spoiler, and a sporty set of bumpers.

Open the doors, and immediately greeting you is a huge MBUX Hyperscreen. That's right, just like the latest S-Class, the C-Class Electric features the massive 39.1-inch seamless MBUX Hyperscreen that almost spans the entire dashboard. It has over 1,000 individually adjustable LED zones and uses matrix backlighting for a more high-definition display.

The C-Class Electric also comes with more creature comforts, which reflects its baby S-Class origins. From amenities such as massage function, ventilated seats, 4D surround sound, intelligent voice command that can be activated by saying “Hey Mercedes”, and a Sky Control panoramic roof with 162 illuminated stars, the C-Class Electric is like a lounge on wheels.

Other key features available inside the all-new C-Class Electric include a Burmester sound system, Nappa or Softorrino leather upholstery with moccasin contrast stitching, ambient lighting, an intelligent climate control system, and relaxation seats that automatically adjust to help occupants get more comfortable while inside the C-Class Electric

The driving force of the C-Class Electric is a pair of electric motors. Dubbed the C400, the electric sedan delivers a combined 489 PS and is powered by a 94 kWh battery pack. Mercedes-Benz claims that on a full charge, the C-Class Electric can travel up to 762 km on the WLTP cycle. Not bad, but the BMW i3 can travel up to 900 km on a single charge.

Thanks to an 800V architecture, the C-Class Electric can have up to 325 km of range after just a 10-minute recharge to a DC fast charger. In fact, the automaker mentioned that the C-Class Electric has a recuperation power of up to 300 kW, which translates to powerful recharging while on the go.

Besides all that, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Electric also benefits from an optional air suspension system and rear-axle steering for better on-road handling.

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class C400 EV will first make its debut in the US market, with other countries to follow suit. With that, expect the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Electric and the BMW i3 to go head-to-head soon.