- AMG tuned electric C-Class prototype shows spoiler and big brakes.
- New MB.EA platform brings 800V charging and up to 800 horses.
- Rivals include BMW’s Neue Klasse iM3 and maybe a hot Audi RS4 EV.
Mercedes is cooking up its first fully electric C-Class and AMG clearly isn’t planning to miss out on the performance possibilities. Fresh spy shots show a hotter version of the upcoming C-Class with EQ Technology testing in disguise, and even under camouflage it looks ready to pick a fight.
At first glance the prototype already looks different from the traditional combustion C-Class formula. Instead of the familiar three-box sedan shape, this EV shows off a sleeker fastback profile. It feels a little sportier and a little less buttoned up, if less dynamic than the new BMW i3.
Related: The Mercedes C-Class Is About To Do Something It Should Have Done Years Ago
Look closer and the AMG clues start piling up. The test car rides on big forged alloy wheels that barely hide the massive drilled brake rotors behind them. There’s also a subtle but unmistakable party trick at the back. Tucked just under the rear window sits a pop up active spoiler to keep the EV tied down at high speed.
SH Proshots
Up front and out back you can also spot Mercedes’ latest star themed lighting signatures. The distinctive star-design daytime running lights are becoming a brand trademark for the next generation of EVs, and together with a huge new illuminated grille they’ll make the production C-Class instantly recognizable as a Benz even at night.
Three Motors, Up To 800 hp
Under the skin the AMG-flavored C-Class EV shares its MB.EA architecture with the recently revealed GLC with EQ Technology. That platform is designed specifically for electric models and supports an 800 volt electrical system for ultra fast charging and improved efficiency. Mercedes has confirmed the stock non-AMG models’ 94 kWh battery will offer a driving range of up to 497 miles (800 km), though the performance derivative will likely sacrifice a few miles.
In return, it’ll generate far more muscle. According to our spy photographer, the system output could reach 789 hp (800 PS / 588 kW) thanks to Mercedes’ new eATS 2.0 motor generation and a tri-motor setup.
New technology, old foes
If those numbers hold true, the electric C-Class AMG might deliver performance that embarrasses plenty of old school V8 sports sedans. Competition will be fierce, though. BMW’s upcoming Neue Klasse-based i3 will spawn its own M performance versions, and expect Audi to cook up some speedy versions of the electric A4, too.
Mercedes is expected to officially unveil the electric C-Class lineup later this year, though we’ll have to wait a few months after that to see the AMG version in full.