Mercedes stops development of next-gen electric car platform after disappointing sales.

SAUDI ARABIA : Mercedes-Benz is scaling back its electric vehicle (EV) ambitions in response to weaker-than-expected sales. This includes scrapping the development of a new electric platform (MB.EA Large) for large and mid-size cars.

Previously, the company aimed for all-electric sales by 2030 and introduced the MB.EA platform in 2021 to support that goal. However, due to lower EV demand, Mercedes-Benz is adjusting its strategy. They'll continue offering gasoline-powered vehicles alongside EVs for the foreseeable future.While the MB.EA Large platform is cancelled, Mercedes-Benz will focus on upgrading their existing EVA2 platform for future electric SUVs and sedans, like the upcoming EQS successor (around 2028) which will have a more traditional design. The upgraded EVA2 will have more efficient motors and batteries for better range.

Mercedes-Benz is also developing other electric platforms alongside the revised EVA2: MB.AMG (sports cars), MMA (compact cars), and MB.VAN (commercial vehicles).This shift reflects a slowdown in Mercedes-Benz's electrification plans. Their target of 50% electrified car sales by 2025-2030 is now delayed, and their goal of all-electric sales in some markets by 2030 is also being reconsidered.