Why Is Mercedes Discontinuing the EQE and EQE SUV So Soon?
If you’ve been eyeing a Mercedes EQE or its SUV sibling, you might be surprised to learn both are on the chopping block by 2026. That’s right—Mercedes is reportedly pulling the plug on these two electric models just a few years after their debut. The EQE sedan made its first appearance at the 2021 Munich Motor Show, with the SUV following in 2022. For cars that barely had time to settle into the market, this is a remarkably short run.
So, what’s behind this abrupt decision? It comes down to a mix of shifting strategy and hard sales data. Mercedes has been reassessing its electric vehicle roadmap, and the numbers haven’t been kind. In the United States, combined EQE sales dropped a staggering 39% last year, totaling just 11,660 units. For a brand that prides itself on luxury and innovation, those figures are a wake-up call.
Is Poor Sales Performance the Only Reason?
Sales are a big part of the story, but they’re not the whole picture. Mercedes has been facing an increasingly crowded EV market, with new models arriving from all corners—legacy automakers and startups alike. The EQE and EQE SUV, despite their premium badges, struggled to stand out. Their pricing didn’t help either: both start at $64,950, but the AMG versions climb to nearly $97,400. And for that kind of money, buyers expect more than the 220 to 230 miles of range these models deliver—especially when competitors are pushing past 300 miles on a single charge.
There’s also the issue of overlap. Mercedes’ EQ lineup has grown quickly, and some models are starting to step on each other’s toes. By trimming the fat, so to speak, Mercedes can focus on future EVs that better fit customer needs and market trends.
What’s Next for Mercedes Electric Vehicles?
If you’re worried this signals Mercedes is backing away from electric cars, don’t be. The brand has already teased a next-generation E-Class EV, set to replace the EQE directly. Unlike the current models, this new sedan will ditch the “egg-shaped” design in favor of a more classic, status-oriented look with a traditional three-box silhouette. That’s a big shift—one that could help Mercedes recapture buyers who want their EVs to look and feel like the Mercedes sedans they’ve always loved.
Meanwhile, the EQE and EQE SUV will be “indirectly replaced” by electric versions of the C-Class and GLC. This move suggests Mercedes is betting on its core, best-selling models to carry the electric torch forward. It’s a logical pivot: the C-Class and GLC have long been volume leaders for the brand, and electrifying them could bring more buyers into the fold.
How Does This Reflect Broader EV Market Challenges?
Mercedes isn’t alone in rethinking its EV strategy. Across the industry, automakers are recalibrating their electric ambitions in response to fluctuating demand, supply chain hiccups, and evolving consumer expectations. According to data from the International Energy Agency, global EV sales grew by 35% in 2023, but growth rates are starting to slow in some mature markets. Range anxiety, charging infrastructure, and sticker shock remain real hurdles.
For luxury brands, the challenge is even steeper. Buyers expect top-tier performance, comfort, and range—without compromise. When those boxes aren’t checked, even a three-pointed star on the hood can’t guarantee success.
What Should Current and Prospective EQE Owners Know?
If you already own an EQE or EQE SUV, there’s no need to panic. Mercedes has a strong track record of supporting discontinued models with parts and service for years. Still, resale values may be affected as these cars become rarer on the road. On the flip side, if you’re in the market for a deal, keep an eye out—dealers may offer significant discounts to clear out remaining inventory.
For those considering an EV from Mercedes, the upcoming E-Class EV and electric C-Class/GLC models are worth watching. Expect improvements in range, design, and technology as Mercedes learns from the EQE’s short-lived run.
What Does This Mean for the Future of Luxury EVs?
The EQE’s story is a reminder that even the biggest names in the business have to adapt—fast. The EV landscape is evolving at breakneck speed, and what worked yesterday might not cut it tomorrow. Mercedes’ willingness to pivot, even if it means axing new models, shows a commitment to getting its electric lineup right rather than just filling showrooms.
The big takeaway? Success in the luxury EV world isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.