Mercedes-Benz’s Tesla Model S Rival will boast an electric range of up to 311 miles

By Miles Branman September 4, 2015

Mercedes GT4 render rear angle — Mercedes-Benz GT4 Rendering Image used with permission by copyright holder

Mercedes-Benz is reportedly working on a battery-powered electric rival to the Tesla Model S.

In an interview with Germany’s Auto Motor Und Sport, Mercedes development boss Thomas Weber revealed that the German automaker is developing an EV to challenge the Tesla Model S. Weber said the planned electric model will have an all electric range in the 400-500 kilometer (249-311 miles) range.

More specifically, Weber said the vehicle’s chassis will be scalable to underpin several different models, so don’t expect this to be the first and last Tesla competitor. It’s worth noting that Mercedes-Benz was actually a stakeholder in Tesla, owning 9.1 percent of the EV automaker in 2009 and using its batteries in its B-Class Electric Drive before ending its relationship in 2014.

A Mercedes-Benz-badged Tesla Model S is no surprise of course as BMW, Audi, and Porsche are all planning new electric models to scoop up customers in the inflating electric vehicle market.

Audi will serve up an electric SUV to challenge the $100,000 Tesla Model X, BMW is working on an i5 sedan with carbon fiber construction in both full-electric and hybridized flavors, and Porsche is developing an electric Pajun with the R8 e-tron’s drivetrain.

With more resources and established brand credibility, Germany’s new crop of electric vehicles could put a damper on Tesla’s sales success, though perhaps more of a challenge will be commandeering Tesla’s “cool” factor as of the last few years.

Topics

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Miles Branman doesn't need sustenance; he needs cars. While the gearhead gene wasn't strong in his own family, Miles…

Cars

Tesla Model 3 vs. Hyundai Ioniq 6: Which electric sedan is best?

Front three quarter view of the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6.

There are finally some more electric sedan options. For years, the Tesla Model 3 was really the only good electric sedan that comes at a reasonable price -- until, Hyundai recently launched the Ioniq 6. The Ioniq 6 certainly takes some cues from the larger Ioniq 5, but is smaller and sleeker, with a design seemingly inspired by the Porsche 911.

But the Tesla Model 3 is still clearly an excellent option for those looking for an electric car, and who don't want a larger crossover. Which is better? Here's a look.
Design
The exterior design of the Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Ioniq 6 is quite different. If you've seen a Tesla car before, then you'll immediately recognize the Model 3 -- it looks largely like a slightly different version of every other Tesla (except the Cybertruck).

Cars

Tesla launches more affordable Model S and Model X, but there’s a catch

A 2021 Tesla Model S.

Tesla has launched more affordable versions of its Model S sedan and Model X SUV in the U.S. and Canada, though they come with shorter driving ranges. Deliveries of the new vehicles will begin next month.

The new Model S "standard range" vehicles cost $78,490 and offer a range of up to 320 miles (515 kilometers), which is considerably shorter than the pricier regular dual-motor and tri-motor Plaid versions that feature a range of 405 miles and 396 miles, respectively, Reuters reported.

Cars

Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV first drive review: a better electric SUV

Front three quarter view of the 2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV.

With EV production ramping up, automakers can now shift attention to something more fun: making EVs that are engaging to drive, the kind that encourage you to take the long way home. Mercedes-Benz is putting its best people on the job.

For more than 50 years, AMG has been turning Mercedes luxury cars into race cars and hot rods—and the performance division is now working its magic on EVs. We’ve already gotten AMG versions of the Mercedes-Benz EQS and EQE sedans, but AMG is now upping the difficulty level with an electric SUV.