Photo: Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz is unifying the design of its electric and combustion engine vehicles, a move mirroring BMW's strategy. This "coherent design language" across the lineup aims to boost flagging electric vehicle sales by moving away from distinct EV styling, like the polarizing EQS. Despite a previous EV-only pledge, Mercedes will launch 19 new combustion models alongside 17 EVs by 2027, acknowledging current market demand.
This shift comes as Mercedes faces declining earnings and plans significant cost cuts. New models this year include the CLA (available as both EV and internal combustion engine), electric GLC and C-Class, and a facelifted S-Class. Mercedes will continue offering a range of engines, including V12s, and will shift some production to lower-cost regions.