Mercedes-Benz will introduce its EQ electric car brand in India on January 14, 2020, with the close-to-production version of the EQC SUV at the event; a production-ready model is expected to launch later in the year, making it Mercedes' first all-electric model in India. For those unaware, Mercedes EQ is essentially the German luxury carmaker's division of all-electric vehicles, just like how AMG is its performance arm and Maybach is its uber-luxury range. Other global models from EQ currently comprise the EQV and Vision EQS concept.
Mechanically, the global-spec EQC's drivetrain is made up of two electric motors – one powering the front wheels and another, the rear – that enable four-wheel-drive capability when needed. They deliver a combined 407hp and 765Nm of torque to move the EQC’s 2,425kg kerb weight. This translates to the fact that in Sport mode, the EQC can sprint from 0-100kph in 5.1sec, with top speed limited to 180kph. Coming to the battery pack, Mercedes equips the EQC with an 80kWh lithium-ion battery and claims it has a range of 400km (WLTP cycle).
In the design department, the EQC is not groundbreaking or vastly different from regular Mercedes models. However, the unique alloy wheels, the distinctive nose with futuristic headlights, and a fibre-optic light strip running across the bonnet, all make it stand out as an EV. On the inside, the new model comes with a newly designed dashboard with a digital instrument and infotainment panel, reworked ventilation units and a new multi-function steering wheel that features touch pads within its horizontal spokes.
The German luxury automaker is also slated to launch the new GLE in India sometime this month, which will feature more tech, increased comfort and quality. Although Mercedes has not confirmed any prices, we expect the GLE to be a bit more expensive than the model it replaces, with its price to climb to around Rs 75 lakh (ex-showroom).
Dipan Sur
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Suraj Viswanathan
