Mercedes-Benz EQ Series brings German electrification

Mercedes began introducing its EQ line of electric vehicles with the EQS sedan, followed soon by the smaller EQE sedan and the EQB small crossover. All three share a common platform, and Mercedes-Benz says more models are coming. I’ve driven all three, so let’s compare.

overview

• The sedan is expensive, but super lux.
• Crossover is a close copy of the popular GLB.
• All three models have quick acceleration and smooth running.
• Range estimates are generally pessimistic.
• The beginning of a long list of expected EVs from Mercedes-Benz.

Mercedes-Benz EQS

Mercedes-Benz EQS debuts as a 2022 model. The car is essentially an S-class sedan in terms of size and equipment, but it features Mercedes’ new battery-electric chassis and design. It is also the most expensive in his EQ lineup, with a starting price of over his US$100,000.

The 2023 EQS comes in four variants: 450+, 450+ 4Matic, 580 4Matic and AMG EQS. The 450+ is rear-wheel drive, the 4Matic model is all-wheel drive, and the AMG variant is the group’s sport-tuned powerhouse. Most of the changes between models concern motor power, with the 4Matic version adding another motor to his front axle for his AWD propulsion.

The standard Mercedes-Benz EQS model produces 329 hp (245 kW) and 419 lb-ft (568 Nm) of torque. Add AWD lift to 355 hp (265 kW) and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm). The more powerful 580 4Matic has stronger motors with a total output of 516 hp (385 kW) and 631 lb-ft (855.5 Nm). And the AMG EQS boosts those motors even more with 649 hp (484 kW) and 700 lb-ft (949 Nm). AMG also has a ‘Race Start’ mode, which temporarily boosts power to 751 horses (560 kW) and 752 lb-ft (1,019.6 Nm) for take-off or rapid acceleration.

However, regardless of which model you choose, the battery pack remains the same 108 kWh. This means that the range varies from model to model thanks to these motor modifications. The standard model has an estimated EPA range of approximately 350 miles (563 km), the 4Matic model has an EPA range of 340 miles (547 km), and the AMG EQS has an EPA range of 277 miles (446 km). Real-world experience has shown these to be very conservative estimates. Our Mercedes-AMG EQS model achieves a range of 298 miles (479.5 km) (despite continued lead-foot acceleration), with 9% of his battery still usable.

Despite being a large and heavy sedan, the Mercedes-Benz EQS drives with agile character and achieves very fast acceleration (60 mph/96 km/h in about 4 seconds for AMG models, about 6 seconds for other models). Sec) I have confidence. ) and low center of gravity. The drive quality is attractive and the handling is good. Braking is interesting because the regenerative balance is changed by the driver and more or less relies on the electric motor for deceleration. Interestingly, when regenerative braking occurs, the brake pedal naturally moves.

Like the S-Class, which draws much of its inspiration, the EQS features a spacious interior with all the luxury you’d expect from a Mercedes-Benz. Trunk space is huge, and almost every gadget, driver’s aid, or safety tech you could expect is probably in this car. These include forward collision mitigation, surround view cameras, blind spot and rear cross traffic alerts, semi-automatic parking and more. Additional options include front seat massage, four-zone climate and head-up display. There is even a smartphone charging pad for the back seat. It’s amazing what you can buy in triple digits.

Mercedes-Benz EQB

Debuting shortly after the EQS was the EQB crossover. The EQB is primarily based on the Mercedes-Benz GLB compact SUV and uses EQS’ EV platform for full electric drive. It has a third row option, lots of cargo space and good mileage.

Unlike the EQS, the EQB is affordable, with prices starting at around $55,000 and an EPA-estimated range of 243 miles (391 km) on a single charge. The battery is a little smaller at 70.5 kWh, which helps keep the price down. However, the EQB comes standard with all-wheel drive with a two-motor propulsion system. However, with the rear bias on the output, the Mercedes-Benz EQB drives with predictable patterns and a familiar feel.

The new EQB comes standard with seating for five, but a third row can be added to accommodate seven. However, that extra row is cramped and really only suitable for a child, and if you choose to stow that row or not, the cargo space is 62 cubic feet (1,755.6 liters) with his second row also folded down. It will be a huge space of Impressive for a crossover of this size.

The Mercedes-Benz EQB is available in two versions, the 300 4Matic and the 350 4Matic. The former has 225 hp (168 kW) and the latter 288 hp (215 kW). Like EQS, EQB supports DC fast charging. Available in three trim levels, the base model is nicely equipped with most of the entry-level luxury items you’d expect from a budget luxury SUV. Of course, things only go up from there.

Our test model EQB was a 350 4Matic in Pinnacle trim level. This means all fixes. The EPA’s range estimates were realistic, but slightly better at 240 miles (386 km) on 7% battery.

Mercedes-Benz EQE

The latest announcement in the EQ lineup is the EQE. Unlike the other two, the EQE has no equivalent in the Mercedes-Benz lineup and is a smaller version of the EQS. Starting at around $85,000, the EQE comes with a 90.6 kWh battery and an estimated range of around 400 miles (644 km) on a single charge.

EQE comes in 350 and 500 models, the latter adding 4Matic all-wheel drive. Like the EQS, it’s a rear-wheel-drive based sedan, but thanks to its reduced size and weight, it feels more energetic. His standard EQE 350 puts out 288 hp (215 kW), while the EQE 500 4Matic adds another motor to the front axle for a total of 402 hp (300 kW). There is also an AMG option that takes the 500 and boosts the output to 617 hp (460 kW). This can be further boosted with the AMG Dynamic Plus package to 677 hp (505 kW). That version has a top speed of 149 mph (240 km/h), considerably faster than his standard EQE 350 model.

Our experience with the EQE turned out to be our favorite of the bunch for sportier driving. We greatly enjoyed its quick power delivery and planted feel. Most people would expect him to be able to sprint 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in under 6 seconds with this EQE. Our tests were done on flat stops and on public roads, and the Mercedes-Benz EQE always feels faster, even at high speeds.

Summary of EQ lines

In summary, the new Mercedes-Benz EQ lineup is a great start to what is likely to be a long list of battery electric products from Mercedes. All of these vehicles are top class in terms of fitment, road appeal and power delivery. Range estimates are very pessimistic, and real-world testing has shown that more is easily possible.

Product page: Mercedes-Benz EQS, Mercedes-Benz EQB, Mercedes-Benz EQE