Mercedes adds EQB

Mercedes-Benz continues the New Zealand rollout of its Mercedes-EQ family of fully electric vehicles by introducing the EQB priced at $99,900 in standard five-seat configuration, with a third row of seats (to make seven) adding $2900.

The EQB comes in two variants, the standard 250, and the sportier 350 4matic priced at $109,900 – costs including GST, on-roads and pre-delivery charges.

Both models are on sale and are covered by a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty and an eight-year EQ battery warranty.

For a limited time, EQB customers can purchase the Edition 1 package, which creates a highly distinctive and even more stylish exterior appearance including AMG-inspired body elements, and also adds EQ-specific interior elements.

Until stock is exhausted, specifying the Edition 1 package will add $9100 for the EQB 250 model, and $3900 for the EQB 350 4matic.

The EQB joins the compact smaller EQA – which arrived last year – and medium EQC SUVs in the growing Mercedes-EQ SUV line-up, alongside an all-electric luxury saloon the EQS.

It has a 2829-millimetre wheelbase (an additional 100mm compared to the EQA).

The system’s operating temperature is optimised through cooling of the electric motors and the power electronics, as well as of the high-voltage lithium-ion battery.

To further reduce noise and vibration, Mercedes-EQ engineers isolated the drive unit from the supporting frame, and the supporting frame from the body-in-white.

The lithium-ion battery has a usable energy content of 66.5kWh and weighs 469kg.

EQB owners get up to 11kW of output via the AC charging system, or up to 100kW using DC charging.

Stowing all rear seats creates 1710 litres of storage space, the EQB able to accommodate bikes, surfboards, golf clubs and carts, and even large furniture items.

With the second row in use – which includes reclining seat backs – 495 litres of cargo space is realised. A three-way split-fold mechanism in the second row adds further options to configure the space available for passengers and cargo.

With the optional third row of seats fitted (EQB 250 only), the key storage measurements are 1620 litres (all rows stowed), 465 litres (second row in use) and 110 litres (all rows in use).

Utilising a single e-motor driving power directly to the front wheels, the EQB 250 drivetrain generates 140kW of power and 385Nm torque, and has up to 371km range (WLTP).

The EQB 250 cabin houses a widescreen display, featuring two 10.25-inch resolution screens.

The driver’s instrument panel can be customised with pre-loaded themes, while the central screen acts as the portal to access the MBUX infotainment system, which includes audio, telephony and navigation controls as well as a number of vehicle settings.

Seats include electrically adjustable and heated front seats, while the centre console includes a wireless charging mat for supported smart devices.

Dual-zone climate control, DAB+ digital radio, Apple and Android smartphone integration, an advanced sound system and ambient lighting with a choice of 64 colours are all standard inclusions.

Also included is the driver assistance package featuring a comprehensive suite of active safety and convenience systems.

The standard parking package includes the Parktronic parking assistant and a 360-degree camera, and the Keyless-Go comfort package includes an electrically operable tailgate including hands-free access.

The EQB has acoustic ambient protection, which mitigates the risk to pedestrians and cyclists by the vehicle’s silent drivetrain by sounding an audible warning at speeds below 20km/h, plus a reversing tone.

Other key features include adjustable damping suspension with multi-link rear suspension to optimise ride comfort, LED high-performance headlights with adaptive high beam assist and featuring EQ-specific blue elements, rain-sensing windscreen wipers, and the progressive exterior package featuring distinctive chrome and aluminium trims, and 19-inch AMG five-twin-spoke light alloy wheels.

Both models in the EQB range incorporate a Type 2 CCS charging socket, while charging cables for use with New Zealand domestic sockets and public charging stations are also supplied.

The Mercedes-Benz EQB 350 4matic has dual e-motors, one mounted on each axle, with a combined output of 215kW and 520Nm, 360km range (WLTP) and gets from zero to 100km/h in 6.2 seconds.

Available solely in the five-seat configuration, the EQB 350 adds interior features that further emphasise its sporty nature.

Exterior features include an electrically controlled panoramic glass sunroof, AMG-specific body styling including extra chrome trim pieces, and 20-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels.