Mercedes is planning to expand the
all-electric EQ brand with at least 10 new models by the middle of the decade
and this is the SUV variant of the upcoming EQE, which will sit above the
current EQC model in the range.
Mercedes is apparently going to offer the
EQE in both sedan and crossover body styles, with both models based on the new
MEA all-electric architecture, which will also underpin the upcoming EQS. For
comparison, the current EQC is built upon a revised version of the GLC
platform.
The highlight here is of course the first
look inside the upcoming EQE; the dashboard appears to adopt a similar design
with the new S-Class, featuring a big portrait-oriented OLED touchscreen
display in the middle for the infotainment and a configurable digital
instrument cluster. The infotainment appears to be the same with the upcoming
S-Class too, meaning the new generation of the MBUX system which will use
artificial intelligence and feature an augmented reality navigation system, in
addition to over-the-air updates.
Thanks to the EV-specific underpinnings,
the Mercedes EQE is expected to offer a very spacious cabin, offering more room
inside than the GLE. The battery pack will be mounted on the floor between the
axles, with Mercedes expected to offer both single and dual motor variants once
the EQE hits the market. The prototype also employs rear-wheel steering, for
better maneuverability at low speeds and more stability at higher speeds. We
haven’t heard any figures from official lips yet but reports suggest a driving
of way over 484 km is one of the goals with the EQE SUV.
Mercedes is expected to launch the EQE
first as a sedan and then as an SUV, with the latter estimated to hit the
market in late 2021 or early 2022. Until then, the German carmaker will launch
the EQS next year as the flagship of the EQ brand, so stay tuned.