We may soon see a new competitor to the Tesla Model 3 in the form of the Mercedes-Benz EQC sedan. While there has been no official confirmation of such an offering from Stuttgart, there has long been talk of a C-Class engine stacking up against Tesla in this segment. Because of this, we offer our unofficial rendering of what the EQC sedan will look like.
Aerodynamics (Almost) From Concept
Our exclusive rendering draws on the Vision EQXX concept as the foundation. Debuting in early 2022, the concept has a range of 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) and we experienced it ourselves on a special first trip. We think the EQC can borrow design cues from the concept for looks and efficiency purposes, although there are some softenings.
For example, the hood can be shorter and more curved, while the center of the bodywork is higher to ensure more interior space. The rear will have a less aerodynamic look than the concept, but Mercedes can retain some of the EQXX’s charm with its signature horizontal taillights.
The EQXX prototype has an aerodynamic coefficient of 0.17, one of the secrets to range and efficiency. With design tweaks to the EQC sedan, it could aim for a coefficient of 0.19 or 0.20 and stay in line with the larger EQS.
New Platform Below
According to some rumors, the EQC sedan will be the first model to be built on the new MMA (Mercedes Modular Architecture) platform. This architecture, previewed by Vision EQXX, uses a 100 kWh battery that weighs 30 percent less and takes up 50 percent less space than the one in the EQS. In addition, the system runs at 900 volts for ultra-fast recharging and the possibility of adding a range of 186 miles in 15 minutes.
That might be found on the highest-range EQC, but to keep the price competitive with the Model 3, it’s likely Mercedes-Benz will offer a smaller battery option at a lower range. However, we still expect this battery to be more efficient than the one used in the current model. The maximum range likely won’t match the EQXX, but numbers ranging between 300 and 450 miles aren’t out of the question. As for the powertrain, single-motor and dual-motor options are likely with a minimum output of around 200 horsepower (149 kilowatts). Naturally, there will be an AMG model in the mix, bringing output to the 500-hp (373-kW) level.
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