As preparations are being made for the arrival here of the new Mercedes-Benz EQS, the all-electric version of its new S-Class, the company's focus has already switched to the opposite end of its model spectrum.
The latest is the EQA, the entry model to the all-electric world of Mercedes-EQ vehicles. Launching in March, when price will be available, EQA is designed with "jump in and drive me" appeal, pitched at what Mercedes calls an "open-minded, urban target group" of younger motorists.
Badged EQA 250, and with an SUV body styled on the GLA, it is the first Mercedes-EQ offering in the compact car segment.
Vital figures are its 140kW power, combined consumption of 15.7kWh/100km, and a range of 426km with zero emissions, according to Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure.
Future variants will include all-wheel-drives with outputs of 200kW or more, of which one will have a WLTP calculated range in excess of 500km.
Standard specifications include MBUX User Experience infotainment system with navigation and electric intelligence. Visually, it has a typical Mercedes-EQ front-end design with black panel grille and star, a distinctive fibre-optic strip running along front and rear, and typical EQ blue headlamp strips.
Other pointers to its electric character are evident inside, including back-lit trim and rosé gold decorative elements on ventilation outlets, seats and key. Other features include high-performance headlamps with adaptive highbeam assist, electrically operated opening and closing tailgate, light 18-inch alloys, 64-colour ambient lighting, luxury seats with adjustable lumbar support, double cup holder, reversing camera, and leather sports steering wheel.
Available also is a Night Package and two design and equipment lines – Electric Art and AMG Line. An "intelligent" navigation system helps drivers calculates the fastest route to their destination, relieving stress by accounting for charging times and allowing for charging stops and other factors, such as topography, weather, traffic conditions and driving style.
Recognising that low wind resistance equals high efficiency, emphasis is placed on aerodynamics and the promise of greater range. With a 0.28Cd value, its features include efficient front and rear aprons, a smooth almost fully enclosed underbody, specially optimised wheels, a closed cooling air control system, and front and rear wheel spoilers. Thermally efficient, its heat pump uses waste heat from the electric motor to heat the passenger compartment thereby increasing range by reducing draw on battery power, while the motor itself is isolated from the chassis and body to prevent transmission of airborne sound and improve comfort by reducing noise and vibration.
Occupant protection includes driver and front passenger airbags, driver’s knee bag, and first and second row window bags. Front side airbags are also standard.
Ciaran Allen, sales manager for Mercedes-Benz in Ireland, says it is designed for young and young-at-heart drivers wanting to invest in "modern, stylish, highly-equipped motoring".
"The EQA meets every wish they might have in a vehicle designed to meet all known environmental standards in an enjoyable and responsible way.”
