What’s new
Mercedes-Benz has restarted U.S.-market production of its EQ electric models and is bringing them back for the 2026 model year with lower prices and fewer variants. The EQE sedan, EQE SUV, EQS sedan, and EQS SUV are once again being built for American customers, with sedans produced in Germany and SUVs assembled in Alabama. Ordering is open at U.S. dealerships.
Why the pause and reset
Production for the U.S. paused on September 1, 2025, as the federal EV tax credit was eliminated under the Trump administration. Reports indicate EV sales weakened in Q4 2025 after the incentive ended. Mercedes describes the pause as a tactical move to align supply with demand and maintain competitiveness amid changing market conditions.
2026 pricing and trims
- EQE Sedan (2026): Starts at $66,100, nearly $10,000 less than 2025; higher-output EQE500 variant dropped.
- EQE SUV (2026): Starts at $66,100, roughly $13,000 less than 2025; EQE500 variant dropped.
- EQS SUV (2026): Starts at $91,100, about $15,000 less; rear-wheel-drive EQS450+ removed.
- EQS Sedan (2026): Price cut of roughly $5,000; new base price not listed.
Production and availability
- EQE and EQS sedans: Built in Germany for the U.S.
- EQE and EQS SUVs: Built in Alabama for the U.S.
- All four 2026 EQ models are in production for the U.S., and customers can order them at U.S. dealerships.
Brand strategy and upcoming EVs
Mercedes is shifting away from EQ-specific naming for new electric models. A battery-electric CLA-class sedan will debut alongside a new hybrid CLA, and a battery-electric GLC is coming that uses the familiar GLC nameplate but a different platform than the gasoline GLC.
Big picture
The combination of resumed assembly, price cuts, and simplified lineups is intended to keep Mercedes’ EVs competitive in a U.S. market now without federal incentives. The refreshed EQ range returns to showrooms as Mercedes prepares to broaden its electric portfolio with the CLA EV and GLC EV.
