The Mercedes-Benz C-Class, typically a benchmark in luxury compact sedans, now gets an all-important electric variant. The new C 400 4MATIC is built on an 800-volt architecture designed for efficiency and long-distance travel. Its estimated range is up to 762 kilometers (473 miles) on the WLTP cycle. And Mercedes boasts that it's the "sportiest C-Class ever" but also "smooth like an S-Class."
While Mercedes-Benz has a long history of releasing EVs under its "EQ" branding, the current C-Class is only available in a gas, mild-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrain. So this marks the first time that the C-Class nameplate has been affixed to a purpose-built battery-electric vehicle.
There's a lot going on under the hood -- or under the floor in the battery pack, as it were. Mercedes says the C-Class can add 325km (202 miles) of range in just 10 minutes while plugged in at a 330kW DC fast charging station. The EV can put out 360kW of power, equivalent to about 483 horsepower, which enables a 0-100km/h acceleration in about four seconds. And it supports bidirectional charging, meaning it can act as a mobile energy storage unit to other devices or homes.
Unlike most EVs, which have a single gear, this C-Class features a two-speed transmission on the rear axle. The first gear is short for neck-snapping off-the-line acceleration, while the second gear is longer to maximize efficiency and quietness at highway speeds.
In addition, the front motor is equipped with a disconnect unit. During steady cruising, the car automatically decouples the front axle to save energy, effectively turning it into a rear-wheel-drive car until extra traction or power is needed.
The air suspension doesn't just react to bumps in the road; Mercedes says it also anticipates them. Using Google Maps data and subscription-only "Car-to-X" communication, the system "knows" a speed bump or rough patch is coming and adjusts the damping milliseconds before impact. And MB.Drive Assist Pro promises "point-to-point" assisted driving in locations where Mercedes has received regulatory approval. This is the system that is powered by Nvidia's AI chips that is supposed to compete with Tesla's Full Self-Driving system.
Inside, the C-Class' dashboard is all screen, which, for better or worse, has become a maximalist design hallmark for Mercedes over the years. The 39.1-inch MBUX Hyperscreen is powered by the Unity game engine for improved graphics. A panoramic roof with 162 illuminated stars can switch from transparent to opaque in milliseconds. And a more premium trim level adds a Burmester 4D Surround Sound System with speakers integrated into the seats. This includes Mercedes' "Energizing Comfort" system of stress reduction through massage functions.
There's also a range of AI-powered features built into the infotainment system. A more naturally conversant virtual assistant will run on a variety of models, including ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing, and Google Gemini. The infotainment system isn't powered by Google's Android, but does feature native Google Maps running "Electric Intelligence" that plans routes based on real-time traffic, topography, and wind conditions.
An augmented reality heads-up display projects 3D navigation cues and safety warnings directly into the driver's field of vision. And over-the-air software updates will keep the C 400 staying fresh, whether by augmenting the driving assistance or entertainment offerings.
The electric C-Class is the latest electric model from Mercedes, which recently promised a "flurry" of EV debuts this year, which also includes the GLC SUV, a refreshed EQS, and the CLA sedan. The three-pointed star may have backed off its plan to sell only EVs after 2030, but that doesn't mean it's given up on plug-in power altogether.
