Mercedes-Benz has reaffirmed its commitment to developing separate platforms for both internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and electric vehicles (EVs) as long as market demand persists. CEO Ola Källenius, in an interview with Autocar UK, emphasized that Mercedes aims to offer high-quality models with no compromises in performance, space, or technology—something that requires distinct architectures for ICE and EV line-ups.
The Need for Two Platforms
Källenius explained that converting an ICE platform into an EV, or vice versa, would inevitably result in compromises, particularly in areas like cabin space, driving dynamics, and overall vehicle packaging. He cited the next-generation Mercedes S-Class, expected in 2028, as an example. "It would be impossible to deliver the same level of performance and comfort by adapting one platform for both powertrains," Källenius noted. "If you don't believe the market will be 100% electric by then, you must offer both options, each without compromise."
The CEO highlighted the packaging advantages of electric vehicles, which allow for more cabin space and better overall efficiency. On the other hand, Mercedes has spent over a century perfecting ICE vehicles, and the company aims to continue offering top-tier combustion engine models alongside its expanding EV range.
Balancing Investments
While developing two separate platforms does increase costs, Källenius stressed that it is a manageable burden if approached intelligently. By making non-powertrain components—such as electronic architectures and software—as common as possible between the two platforms, Mercedes can minimize additional investments.
Källenius further emphasized that the electronic architecture and software now represent the largest areas of investment in vehicle development, not the traditional mechanical components. This shift allows Mercedes to optimize its spending across both ICE and EV platforms.
The Future of Mercedes-Benz
Despite the increasing global push toward electrification, Källenius noted that the adoption of EVs has been slower than anticipated. Five years ago, Mercedes projected that EVs would make up a quarter of its sales by now, but the current figure is significantly lower. As a result, Mercedes is adjusting its long-term strategy, with Källenius suggesting that the market could be 50:50 between ICE and EVs by 2030.
Mercedes has already prepared its ICE models for future Euro 7 emissions regulations, investing heavily in both hybridization and cleaner combustion engines. Coupled with its aggressive push into EV technology, Mercedes is positioning itself to meet evolving market demands.
This dual-platform approach, according to Källenius, ensures that Mercedes remains a dominant player in both the ICE and EV markets, offering its customers the best of both worlds.
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