The report cites company insiders who say that the EQ branding will no longer be necessary as Mercedes' lineup becomes increasingly electric. The automaker has previously pledged to offer an electric variant of each of its models by 2025.
Currently, Mercedes-Benz has seven electric models available for purchase: EQE, EQE SUV, EQS, EQS SUV, EQC, EQA and EQB. In the next couple of years, it plans to add an electric version of its G-Class 4x4 and a long-range compact sedan based on the EQXX concept, bringing the total number of electric models to roughly the same level as its traditional gasoline-powered cars.
The 'EQ' name is currently used on mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, with 'EQ Boost' being used for the former and 'EQ Power' for the latter.
Mercedes-Benz is expected to phase out combustion engines in most markets by 2030. The recently released C-Class is likely to remain on sale until around 2028, and a new combustion-powered E-Class is set to launch in 2023. Additionally, the GLC and GLE SUVs will also continue to be available with combustion engines for another generation.
Source: Handelsblatt
