Mercedes’ growing electric car plans include rethinking one of its most iconic vehicles. As you might guess, this is an electric take on the G-Class SUV, mating an “uncompromising” (and boxy) off-road design with an eco-friendly electric powertrain. The brand has started Germany’s IAA show by introducing a slew of new Concepts and production EVs, highlighted by the Concept EQG (above).
The company hasn’t detailed the battery, motor system, or interior. There are no mentions of when it might ship. However, it said this was a “near-production” design that would go through the same Schöckl mountain torture test as its ancestors. Mercedes said that the instant torque and low center of gravity inherent to EVs should work in the EQG’s favor when climbing hills and rough terrain.
Daimler
There are EVs closer on the horizon, of course. Mercedes has finally detailed the EQE (second from top), its electric equivalent to the E-Class. At first, it appears to be a shrunken version of the EQS luxury sedan, but that’s not necessarily bad. You’re still getting a highly aerodynamic design and long-range (a claimed 410 miles on the not-quite-realistic WLTP cycle), just in a smaller, CLS-sized design that should be easier to navigate around town.
Performance versions are in the pipeline, according to Mercedes. The EQE 350 launch model will include a rear motor and a 90kW battery, reaching 60MPH in a claimed 5.6 seconds. However, the EQS’ signature dash-length “Hyperscreen” is strictly optional here — you’ll generally get a more conventional 12.8-inch OLED infotainment display.
The EQE will have a “staggered” worldwide launch starting in mid-2022. Mercedes hasn’t divulged pricing, although we’d expect it to cost more than the $54,250 combustion engine E-Class.
Daimler
And yes, there are already ultra-luxurious and high-performance versions of the EQS. A Mercedes-Maybach Concept EQS (second from bottom) offers an electric SUV for customers who’d rather have a chauffeur for their eco-friendly transportation. Another near-production vehicle takes on the signature two-tone styling and other cues of a Maybach, along with lounge-like rear seating and a Maybach-oriented Hyperscreen upfront. Mercedes was again shy on performance and release dates, although it noted tthat the related EQS SUV is expected to net around a 373-mile range and go into production in 2022.
If you’re more inclined to take the helm, the Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ (bottom) is the brand’s first AMG-badged EV and includes custom motors that promise up to 761HP, 742lb/ft of torque and a 0-60MPH time of 3.4 seconds — brisk for a large luxury sedan. Although the unique rims and optional carbon-ceramic rotors will clear your go-fast intentions, you won’t see too many visual differences. You’ll also find an AMG GT-derived air suspension and rear-wheel steering. Mercedes hasn’t outlined pricing or release dates here, either, although it’s safe to presume this will make the regular EQS line seem frugal.
Daimler
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