KATHMANDU: Mercedes-Benz is reportedly developing a new global electric vehicle platform in China using electrical architecture from Geely.
The move marks the first time in the automaker’s 130-year history that the development of a new vehicle platform has been led outside Germany.
According to reports, Mercedes has started work on a new platform codenamed “Phoenix,” which will support entry-level electric vehicles for global markets.
Development is being led by the company’s Chinese R&D center, which will serve as the global headquarters for compact vehicle development, while the German center will focus on mid-size and large models.
The Phoenix platform will use Geely’s GEEA electrical architecture and is expected to enter production around 2030. It will eventually replace the current MMA platform and underpin future compact models such as the Mercedes-Benz A-Class, Mercedes-Benz B-Class, Mercedes-Benz GLA, Mercedes-Benz GLB, and Mercedes-Benz CLA.
Sources indicate Mercedes is currently conducting proof-of-concept testing using Geely’s GEEA 4.0 architecture, which supports both conventional and electric vehicles. The earlier GEEA 3.0 system, first used in the Geely Galaxy E5 in 2024, has already supported production volumes exceeding one million units.
Cost reduction is believed to be a key factor behind the collaboration. Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius reportedly held multiple meetings with executives to focus on improving profitability and reducing development costs.
The electronic and electrical architecture is considered the foundation of modern intelligent vehicles, enabling features such as advanced driver assistance systems and smart cockpit technologies.
Industry observers say the move reflects a wider trend of global automakers partnering with Chinese companies for EV and software technology. Similar collaborations include Volkswagen with XPeng, Stellantis with Leapmotor, and Renault with Geely.
