Mercedes-Benz’s fifth electric vehicle (EV) has been launched in the local market, the EQE Sedan.
Slotting in under the EQS, the EQE is the second-most-premium EV the automaker builds and it carries a starting price of R1,800,000.
The new Mercedes is available in two specifications boasting individual designs, features, and powertrain configurations.
Driving dynamics
The 350+ is powered by a single electric motor with a capacity of 215kW and 565Nm, enabling the rear-wheel-drive EQE to accelerate from 0-100km/h in 6.4 seconds.
The AMG variant adds another motor to the front axle for an all-wheel-drive powertrain, resulting in a combined power generation of 350kW and 858Nm. As a result, the 43 brings the 0-100km/h time down to 4.2 seconds.
The top-spec model’s performance is further sharpened by model-specific wheel carriers, suspension links, and anti-roll bars with higher rigidity.
“The AMG engineers have specifically tuned all components to meet the special requirements of AMG customers. This applies to ride comfort as well as driving dynamics,” said the company.
Top speed is then limited to 210km/h for both four-doors, and both are equipped with a 90.56kWh battery pack that provides a driving range of up to 645km in the 350+ model and up to 535km in the AMG.
This battery module is capable of a maximum 170kW DC charging current, which will see these EQE go from 10-80% charge in approximately 32 minutes.
On a three-phase AC current, a full 0-100% charge takes nine hours and 15 minutes with an 11kW plug, and four hours and 45 minutes when using a 22kW outlet.
With three stages of brake energy recuperation, the driver can then adjust engine braking via the paddles behind the steering wheel – which on a petrol car will be used for the gears – with ECO-assist providing situation-optimised recuperation.
The AMG Sound Experience package playing through a 15-speaker Burmeister stereo is included, too, offering a “soundtrack for outside and inside that emotionally enhances the dynamic driving experience,” said the automaker.
A selection of Authentic, Balanced, Sport, and Powerful audio modes are available to cater to the driver’s moods, and when using the Race Start function, the EV produces a distinctive sound to match the dynamic acceleration.
Optionally, the EQE line-up can be equipped with Airmatic air suspension with adaptive damping, the AMG Dynamic Plus package, rear-axle steering which reduces the turning circle from 12.5 to 10.7 metres, and the MBUX hyperscreen that turns the entire front fascia into a high-definition widescreen.
Price
The South African pricing and model line-up for the new Mercedes-Benz EQE Sedan are as follows:
- Mercedes-Benz EQE 350+ – R1,800,000
- Mercedes-AMG EQE 43 4Matic – R2,200,000
Each purchase includes a 2-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty, an 8-year/160,000km battery warranty, and a 5-year/100,000km PremiumDrive maintenance plan.
Local buyers will also receive a free charger installation at a destination of their choice, said the manufacturer.
Mercedes-Benz EQE 350+
Mercedes-AMG EQE 43 4Matic
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