We ride in the electric Merc EQ
AMG’S INTEREST IN hybrid power (see main story) comes soon after the launch of fellow Mercedes sub-brand EQ. The electric division’s Paris motor show concept, also called EQ, is being used as a rolling blueprint for its first truly dedicated electric production model, which will spearhead a 10-strong EV line-up that’s due by 2025.
Autocar has sampled the EQ concept from the passenger seat. The model’s dual-motor powertrain can deliver more than 400bhp and the driveline can send 100% of drive to the front or rear wheels or give the car full four-wheel drive capability.
Around town at lower speeds, it is programmed to run mainly in frontwheel drive. It switches automatically to four-wheel drive for added handling security at higher speeds.
The silent qualities of the concept’s electric driveline perfectly complement the visual calmness of the cabin’s uncluttered design.
The concept feels every bit as quick as its sub-5.0sec 0-62mph time suggests, too.
Naturally, the ride quality is compromised by the EQ concept’s hand-cut 22in tyres and minimal suspension tuning. But with the production version set to offer the latest Air Body Control suspension, complete with three-chamber plungers like those of the latest S-class, it should cope with cobblestones and nasty transverse bumps in a more distinguished way than the firm-riding one-off show car.