On the road in electric Merc
Concept previews EV plans Mercedes EQ Two motors, 310-mile range
We hitch a ride in Mercedes’ groundbreaking new EQ
THE EQ sub-brand is designed to spearhead Mercedes’ push to future mobility. The manufacturer promises 10 fully battery-powered models by 2025 – and now we’ve ridden shotgun in the show car that previews the first of those vehicles, likely to be badged EQC.
The production model will have two electric motors – one for each axle – with a 300kw (402bhp) output, and the EQC will be built on an Ev-specific, scalable platform. The promise is a 0-62mph time of around five seconds, but more relevant is that the lithium-ion battery will have the capacity to allow 500km (310 miles) on a charge.
EQ will be as much about technology as it is mobility, and that’s apparent as soon as you get inside. It’s dripping in concept car cues, such as rear view mirrors replaced by cameras and screens, and the absence of exterior door handles. The production car will be a little more conventional, but Vera Schmidt, of Advanced Digital Graphic Design, does say that a lot of effort has gone into reducing the kind of “information density” that can lead to distraction.
The instrumentation is similar to that of the current E-class and S-class, but simpler. Its large single screen spans where a binnacle would usually be situated in the middle of the dashboard. A small touchscreen controller sits between the front seats, and this, allied to an updated COMAND controller, operates the numerous communication, navigation, information, climate and vehicle options.
Interior lighting is key; the heater vents change colour to reflect the temperature setting, and the ambient lighting gives details such as charging status, while the pin lights in the doors could be used to signal vehicles in your blindspot. On the road, from the passenger seat, the clean, beautifully finished interior is light, airy and spacious. The electric drive only adds to the serenity.
Mercedes is planning an entire ‘ecosystem’ of EQ vehicles, with a suite of services such as charging assistance, and apps to facilitate the likes of car-sharing features, but this is all very much in the future.
Still, if the production EQ can deliver even a fraction of the show car’s wow factor and ease of use, as well as the promised range and performance, then the switch from conventional fuels to battery power is something to look forward to.
News “EQ sub-brand will be as much about technology as it is mobility – and that’s apparent as soon as you get inside concept”