Just a few months after the launch of the EQS, Mercedes-EQ is already presenting the next model based on the electric architecture developed specifically for electric vehicles, the new EQE. The sporty business saloon offers all the essential functions of the EQS in a slightly more compact format. At market launch, the model range initially comprises two variants: the EQE 350 (power consumption acc. to WLTP: 19.3-15.7 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions: 0 g/km) with 215 kW, as well as another model. Performance variants with around 500 kW are being planned. Production of the EQE takes place at two locations of the Mercedes-Benz Cars global production network: at the German Mercedes-Benz plant in Bremen for the global market and at the German-Chinese joint venture BBAC in Beijing for the local market.
Compared to the luxury liner EQS, the EQE is even more streamlined, with a slightly shorter wheelbase, shorter overhangs and more recessed flanks – it carries the concept of the business saloon into the future. Sensual Purity is reflected in generously modelled surfaces, reduced joints and seamless transitions (seamless design). The overhangs and the front end are kept short, the rear provides the dynamic accent with a sharp rear spoiler. Flush with the outer edge of the body, the 19- to 21-inch wheels, together with a pronounced muscular shoulder section, give the EQE an athletic character.
In the outer dimensions (length/width/height: 4946/1961/1512 millimetres), the EQE is comparable to the CLS. Like the latter, it has a fixed rear window and a boot lid. The interior dimensions even clearly exceed those of today’s E-Class (213 model series), e.g. the shoulder room in the front (plus 27 mm) or the interior length (plus 80 mm).
Unconventional interior design and high operating convenience
With the optionally available MBUX Hyperscreen, the entire instrument panel is a single, ultimate widescreen. This determines the aesthetics of the entire cockpit and interior. The high-resolution screens merge seemingly seamlessly under the shared glass cover. The graphic appearance of their MBUX content is perfectly coordinated. The MBUX Hyperscreen is integrated into the instrument panel in minimalist fashion.
The 12.3-inch OLED display for the front passenger gives them their own display and control area. In Europe, the passenger is allowed to watch dynamic content such as videos, TV or internet even when on the move. This is because Mercedes-EQ uses an intelligent, camera-based blocking logic: if the camera detects that the driver is looking at the front passenger display, this is automatically dimmed for certain content.
The vent band spans across the entire width at the top and is very slim at the same time. These extreme proportions, together with the glass wave of the MBUX Hyperscreen, create the avant-garde architecture of the cockpit. The outer nozzles feature a turbine design. They play on the theme hyperanalogue through the contrast between high-tech precision mechanics and digital, glass display world.
The latest MBUX generation, recently introduced in the EQS, is also on board the EQE. With adaptive software, the control and display concept completely adapts to its user and makes personalised suggestions for numerous infotainment, comfort and vehicle functions. With the zero-layer design, the user does not have to scroll through submenus or give voice commands. The most important applications are offered situationally and contextually on the top level in the field of view. In this way the EQE driver is relieved of certain operating steps.
Efficient drive system
The EQE 350 with 215 kW plus a second model will be launched first. Further versions will follow. All EQE models have an electric drivetrain (eATS) on the rear axle. The later versions with 4MATIC are also equipped with an eATS at the front axle. The electric motors are permanently excited synchronous motors (PSM). With the PSM, the rotor of the AC motor is fitted with permanent magnets and therefore does not need to be supplied with power. The advantages of this design include high power density, high efficiency and high power constancy. The motor on the rear axle is particularly powerful due to its six-phase design: it has two windings with three phases each.
In the EQE, the lithium-ion battery consists of ten modules and has a usable energy content of 90 kWh. The innovative battery management software, developed in-house, allows updates over the air (OTA). In this way, the energy management of the EQE remains up-to-date throughout the life cycle.
Data on power consumption and range are provisional and were determined internally in accordance with the “WLTP test procedure” certification method. Confirmed TÜV figures, EC type approval and certificate of conformity with official figures are not yet available. Differences between the stated figures and the official figures are possible.
