Put simply, the German automaker is choosing to accelerate from EV-first to EV-only as quickly as it can, rather than waiting for an external stimulant. This is to ensure that when the time comes and market conditions are right, it has a comprehensive portfolio of EVs ready to go..
With these two platforms – MB.EA and MMA – Mercedes-Benz will likely give up on new ICE variants entirely, which is keeping in line with its 100% electric commitment. This will also affect all three sub-brands under Mercedes-Benz, namely AMG, Maybach and G , which will become fully electric. Aside from passenger and performance cars, Mercedes-Benz also has a business in vans and light commercial vehicles. For these categories of vehicles, there’s the VAN.EA platform, which is said to “contribute to emission-free transportation and cities in the future.”
For the next generation of batteries, the company will work with its partners to vary the chemistries within the battery to provide the best solution depending on requirements. For example, Mercedes-Benz is working with Sila Nano on using silicon-carbon composite in the anode to increase energy density up to 900 Wh/l.
“We are aiming for a modular battery system that consists of uniformly designed components and a standardised interface to the entire vehicle. Only two differentiating characteristics will create the necessary variance in terms of range, charging and driving performance: cell chemistry and the height,” said Markus Schäfer, Mercedes-Benz’s COO and R&D chief.