Mercedes-Benz is considering relocating the production of its EQS SUV from its Tuscaloosa, Alabama plant to make way for the anticipated electric GLC-Class, according to reports from supplier sources, as disclosed by Automotive News. It is anticipated that Mercedes will halt the production of the EQS SUV in the U.S. after a single generation and instead manufacture its successor at a facility in Bremen, Germany. This transition is expected to occur later in this decade.
Currently, the Bremen plant is responsible for assembling the C-Class, E-Class, and EQE sedans, along with the GLC-Class and EQC crossovers. Notably, the electric GLC-Class will directly take the place of the EQC model, which was originally planned for the U.S. market but was ultimately canceled at the eleventh hour.
To address the gap left at the Tuscaloosa plant, Automotive News, citing information from market research firm AutoForecast Solutions, suggests that Mercedes intends to commence production of the electric GLC-Class, possibly commencing as early as the first quarter of 2026.
While Mercedes currently produces approximately 20,000 EQS SUVs annually, expectations are that the electric GLC-Class will see production volumes more than double that figure.
Camouflaged prototypes of the electric GLC-Class have already been observed during testing. These prototypes indicate a distinct design from the conventional gasoline-powered GLC-Class models currently available for sale.
In a departure from the EQC, which shares a platform with the previous-generation GLC-Class, the forthcoming electric GLC-Class, slated for a 2025 debut, will ride on a dedicated EV platform, likely Mercedes’ upcoming MMA platform tailored for compact electric vehicles and capable of accommodating hybrid configurations. This transition is expected to enable a range of 300 miles or more for the vehicle.
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Production relocation
What is the reason for Mercedes-Benz considering production relocation?
Mercedes-Benz is contemplating relocating production to accommodate the electric GLC-Class and maximize space at its Tuscaloosa, Alabama plant.
Why is the EQS SUV production in the U.S. expected to cease?
The production of the EQS SUV in the U.S. is anticipated to halt after one generation to make way for the successor model, which will be manufactured in Bremen, Germany.
What is the timeline for this production transition?
The changeover is expected to take place later in this decade.
What models are currently produced at the Bremen plant?
The Bremen plant is responsible for manufacturing the C-Class, E-Class, EQE sedans, GLC-Class, and EQC crossovers.
What will replace the EQC model in the U.S. market?
The electric GLC-Class is set to directly replace the EQC model, which was originally intended for the U.S. market but was canceled.
When is production of the electric GLC-Class expected to start in the U.S.?
Production of the electric GLC-Class may commence as early as the first quarter of 2026 in the Tuscaloosa plant.
How do the production volumes of EQS SUV and electric GLC-Class compare?
While Mercedes currently produces around 20,000 EQS SUVs annually, production volumes for the electric GLC-Class are expected to be more than double that figure.
What distinguishes the design of the electric GLC-Class from the gas-powered GLC-Class?
Camouflaged prototypes of the electric GLC-Class have been spotted with distinct styling compared to the conventional gas-powered GLC-Class models.
What platform will the electric GLC-Class ride on?
Unlike the EQC, which shared a platform with the previous-generation GLC-Class, the electric GLC-Class will be based on a dedicated EV platform, likely Mercedes’ MMA platform designed for compact EVs and hybrids.
What is the expected range for the electric GLC-Class?
With the transition to a dedicated EV platform, the electric GLC-Class is expected to offer a range of 300 miles or more.
More about Production relocation
- Automotive News (subscription required)
- AutoForecast Solutions
- Mercedes-Benz Official Website
- Mercedes-Benz EQC
- Mercedes-Benz MMA Platform
4 comments
Production shift, Germany’s gainin’, EQS US stoppin’, electric GLC poppin’, business in the auto world.
GLC electric, new platform, 300+ miles range, spotted it, stylish, excitin’ times for EVs!
mercedes movin’ stuff ’round, EQS SUV goin’ byebye in US, GLC electric takin’ its place in bremen. 2026 prolly big year for ‘lectric GLC!
EQS SUV makin’ way for electric GLC, more production, more cars, less letters, it’s a plan!