Mercedes-Benz Peportedly Signs Off Four New All-Electric Models

Fresh reports indicate that Mercedes-Benz has given the go-ahead for four all-electric cars to be developed in an apparent assault on Tesla.

The ambitious 2 billion euro project is, according to Car Magazine, dubbed “Exoluxe”. The first model will be launched in 2018 and is expected to be a saloon positioned between the C- and E-Class; an all-electric crossover of similar size will reportedly join it soon enough.

Further down the road, Mercedes has plans for an SUV larger than the currently range-topping GLS and an electric saloon close to the S-Class in size.

The first two models will be underpinned by a new electric vehicle architecture dubbed EVA, while the larger ones will utilize a modified version of a platform named the EVA Phase II. The latter will borrow components from the rear-wheel drive MRA architecture and, as with Tesla’s Model S and Model X, the battery pack, which will weigh around 400 kg, will be installed across the floorpan.

Depending on the model, the large battery pack will drive one or two electric motors, with rear- and all-wheel drive variants offered.

It is reported that the German automaker hopes to sell at least 20,000 units of each four models.

Note: Mercedes-Benz Concept IAA pictured.