The Mercedes EQC is the only electric vehicle the German luxury automaker currently sells but this will soon change as the Mercedes EQ family is getting a major expansion to catch up with Tesla. Later this year, Mercedes will launch the smaller and more affordable EQA, an electric version of the Mercedes GLA that was previewed by the EQA Concept at the 2017 Frankfurt Auto Show.

Mercedes has already shown camouflaged prototypes of the production EQA being put through their paces in freezing conditions, but now the camo is slowly starting to come off. Caught by our spy photographers, this latest prototype has less camouflage covering the front and rear, giving us a better look at Mercedes' Tesla Model Y rival ahead of its debut.

Being based on the current-generation Mercedes GLA, the side profile looks very familiar. We also get a better look at the closed-off grille and unique headlights that distinguish the EQA from its combustion-powered counterpart. A redesigned front bumper will also enhance the electric crossover's aerodynamics. At the back, a layer of tape covers up an LED strip between the rear lights. The license plate is also positioned on the rear bumper in contrast to the regular GLA where it's positioned higher between the rear lights.

Technical details haven't been confirmed for the production model yet. The EQA Concept was capable of delivering an electric range of 249 miles thanks to a 60-kWh lithium-ion battery, while two electric motors produced a combined 268 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, enabling the electric crossover to hit 0-62 mph in five seconds.

Since EV technology has evolved since 2017, we're expecting the production version to offer even better specifications. With a debut slated for later this year, the Mercedes EQA could be unveiled at the 2020 Paris Auto Show in September, providing it doesn't get canceled completely. Back in March, organizers announced the show has been canceled "in its current format," so we'll have to wait and see what the revamped show brings.

After the EQA debuts, Mercedes will continue expanding its electric SUV lineup with the EQB next year, which will be an electric version of the Mercedes GLB.