Why Is Mercedes-Benz Ending Production of the EQE Saloon and SUV?
If you’ve been eyeing the Mercedes EQE saloon or SUV, you might be surprised to hear that both are set to bow out in 2026. So, what’s behind this decision? In short, it’s all about keeping up with a rapidly shifting electric vehicle (EV) landscape and making room for a new generation of tech-savvy models. Mercedes-Benz has been reassessing its electric lineup, and after some internal number crunching, the company decided that the EQE saloon and SUV would overlap too much with upcoming models. Rather than stretching resources thin, Mercedes is choosing to focus on the future—one that promises smarter, more practical EVs.
What Will Replace the EQE Models?
You might be wondering, “If the EQE is going away, what’s next?” Mercedes isn’t leaving a gap in its lineup. Instead, the electric C-Class EQ and GLC EQ are stepping up to the plate. Both are built on Mercedes’ new 800V MB.EA-M platform, which is a big leap forward compared to the current EQE’s underpinnings. This new platform is designed for better packaging (think more interior space and smarter layouts), improved practicality, and chassis technology that matches or even surpasses what you’d find in the outgoing EQE models.
The C-Class EQ saloon, set for a 2026 debut, will offer features like air suspension and rear-axle steering—options that used to be reserved for higher-end models. Meanwhile, the GLC EQ, which is expected to make its first appearance at the 2025 Munich Motor Show, will boast 570 liters of boot space and an extra 128 liters in the front trunk (frunk). That’s a noticeable jump over the EQE SUV’s 520-liter capacity. Plus, with a towing capacity of up to 2,500 kg, the GLC EQ is shaping up to be as practical as it is advanced.
How Does This Shift Affect Mercedes’ Electric Strategy?
Mercedes’ decision to phase out the EQE models isn’t just about making room for new cars—it’s about staying competitive in a market that’s evolving at breakneck speed. The company had originally planned a mid-life facelift for the EQE, including a significant upgrade to its EVA platform. This would have brought a new 800V electric architecture, a silicon-carbide inverter, and the latest eATS2 electric motors for better performance and efficiency. However, these upgrades will now be reserved for the larger EQS saloon and EQS SUV.
Why? Because the incoming C-Class EQ and GLC EQ already offer the kind of advanced technology and features that would have come with the EQE’s facelift. There’s no longer a compelling reason to invest heavily in the outgoing models when the new generation is ready to take the spotlight.
What’s Next for Mercedes’ Electric Lineup?
Looking ahead, Mercedes is already working on the successor to the EQE saloon—the E-Class EQ. Slated for a 2027 launch, this model will also ride on the MB.EA-M platform, ensuring it benefits from the latest advancements in EV technology. This move gives Mercedes time to retool its factories and streamline production, setting the stage for a new era of electric luxury.
It’s also worth noting that Mercedes has been steadily improving the EQE saloon and SUV since their 2022 debut. Updates have included a heat pump for better efficiency, a disconnect unit for the front-mounted engine on four-wheel-drive models (allowing rear-wheel-drive operation in certain conditions), and a larger 96kWh battery for extended range. Performance tweaks have kept the models competitive, but with the new C-Class EQ and GLC EQ on the horizon, the advantages of the EQE platform are fading.
How Will These Changes Impact Buyers and the Market?
For current EQE owners, there’s no need to worry—Mercedes has a strong track record of supporting its vehicles long after production ends. For those considering an EV in the next few years, the upcoming C-Class EQ and GLC EQ promise to deliver the same (or better) blend of luxury, technology, and practicality.
Industry analysts see this as a smart move. According to a recent report from the International Energy Agency, global EV sales are expected to hit 17 million in 2024, up from 14 million in 2023. Automakers are under pressure to innovate quickly, and Mercedes’ realignment reflects a broader trend: legacy brands are streamlining their lineups to focus on platforms that can adapt to new tech and changing consumer demands.
What Should You Watch For If You’re Shopping for an Electric Mercedes?
If you’re in the market for a Mercedes EV, keep an eye on the launch dates for the C-Class EQ and GLC EQ. These models are likely to set new benchmarks for the brand, especially with their advanced 800V architecture, improved battery management, and practical features like expanded cargo space and higher towing capacity.
And if you’re already driving an EQE, rest assured that Mercedes’ commitment to quality and after-sales support isn’t going anywhere. The company’s focus on future-proofing its lineup means you’ll continue to benefit from ongoing software updates and service support.
The Bottom Line: Mercedes Is Betting Big on the Next Generation of EVs
Mercedes-Benz’s decision to sunset the EQE saloon and SUV is more than just a model refresh—it’s a strategic pivot toward a smarter, more flexible electric future. By investing in new platforms and prioritizing innovation, Mercedes is making sure it stays at the forefront of the luxury EV market. For buyers, that means more choices, better technology, and a driving experience that’s truly ready for tomorrow.