Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the EQA – the first of its six, planned EQ-branded electric vehicles (EV) that intends to launch over the next two years.

The first model, the EQA 250, is a small SUV, and is pegged as its ‘entry-level’ EV.

Power comes via a 66.5kWh, high-density, lithium-ion battery. A single asynchronous electric motor is used at the front axle and delivers 140kW and 375Nm. Performance stats come in at 0-100km/h in 8.9 seconds and a top speed of 160km. The all-important range number is 486km on the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) test. That number is a bit tighter at 426km under the WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) test.

Longer-range, more powerful, and all-wheel-drives models are on the cards.

Using the Mercedes-Benz Wallbox, or at public charge points, an on-board charger provides a way of recharging the EQA with up to 11 kW using alternating current (AC). Mercedes says a charging time of 5 hours and 45 minutes (from 10-100 per cent) can be expected via this method. DC fast charging at 100kW is available and that will see a recharge from 10-80 per cent come down in time to just 30 minutes.

Underpinning the EQA on the front axle is a MacPherson suspension with spring strut and transverse control arm, coil springs, twin-tube gas-filled shocks and a stabliser bar. At the rear axle there is a multi-link system, coil springs, gas pressure shocks and a stabiliser. Steering is an electrically assisted rack-and-pinion power steering system.

The battery sits within a specially developed frame made out of extruded sections that is also structural. A battery guard in the front area of the battery is able to protect the energy storage unit from being pierced by foreign objects.

The standard specification of the EQA includes features such as LED High Performance headlamps with Adaptive Highbeam Assist, the EASY-PACK tailgate with electrically operated opening and closing, 18-inch light-alloy wheels, ambient lighting with 64 colours, luxury seats with four-way adjustable lumbar support, a reversing camera, and a multifunction sports steering wheel in leather.

Also included as standard are the MBUX infotainment system and the Navigation with Electric Intelligence system. This calculates the fastest route to the given destination. On the basis of continual range simulations, the system makes allowance for any necessary charging stops as well as for numerous other factors, such as the topography and the weather. It is also able to react dynamically to changes, for instance in the traffic situation or personal driving style.

The new model can be personalised with the two design and equipment lines – Electric Art and AMG Line – as well as with the Night Package (offering plenty of black trim features).

The EQA features a range of intelligent driving assistance systems. The Driving Assistance Package (optional equipment varying according to country and equipment level) includes: Active Distance Assist, Active Steer Assist, Active Emergency Stop Assist, Active Speed Limit Assist, Evasive Steering Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Traffic Sign Assist, and Active Brake Assist with turning manoeuvre and cross-traffic function. The Pre-Safe Plus system can detect a potential rear impact and, if the danger of a collision persists, can apply the brakes of the stationary vehicle, minimising the risk of whiplash injuries by reducing the forward jolt caused by an impact from the rear.

Mercedes-Benz says the EQA 250 will be available in Germany from €47,540. That would convert to a Australian dollar price of $AU74,210. We’ll see where that ends up when it hits our shores later this year.

Source: Motor Trader e-Magazine (February 2021)

5 February 2021