Mercedes lock-n-load EV assault

Mercedes-Benz is about to launch its EQ sub-brand assault on the global EV market.

The Geneva Motor Show on March 8-18 will be centre stage for a number of unveilings, including the highly anticipated Mercedes electric SUV.

The EQ will get a maximum power output of 300kW and a range of “up to 500 kilometres”, according to Daimler.

It’s expected to come in permanent all-wheel drive, moving an architecture that will be transferable to SUVs, sedans, coupes and convertibles in future.

The EQ platform will allow a modular, adjustable wheelbase and track width, as well as the all-important battery configurations.

According to Daimler’s dedicated EQ webpage, the SUV production model will be launched “in this decade”.
Mercedes’ EQ will compete against the Tesla Model X, Jaguar I-Pace and Audi e-Tron, the latter of the three which is a possibility of being unveiled at Geneva also.
An electric or hybrid option will be available throughout the Benz range by 2022, the company says.

“In 2007 the electric Smart was a pioneer of electric driving,” says Daimler chairman Dieter Zetsche.

“We are now throwing the switch. We are ready to start an electromobility campaign with which we want to cover all vehicle segments, from the compact to the premium class.”