Mercedes Benz has unveiled its new entry-level electric model EQA to the all-electric world of Mercedes-EQ vehicles. The new EQA is being built in Rastatt (Germany) and Beijing (China). From the spring of 2021, the electric SUV will be available from the European dealerships. The Mercedes Benz EQA 250 is priced at 47,540.50 euros (Rs 42.23 lakh) in Germany.
1. GLA’s all-electric sibling
The Mercedes-Benz EQA has it’s overall proportions with short overhangs front and rear similar to the new GLA. The front section flows over the A-pillar into the visually compact greenhouse. The powerdomes hinted at in the bonnet, like the flush wheels, underscore the car’s self-confident stance. Further distinctive features include the powerful shoulders of the bodywork and the coupé-like lines of the side windows.
2. Aerodynamically optimised wheels
With a Cd value from 0.28, the Mercedes Benz EQA is more aerodynamic than the GLA. The transmission tunnel, exhaust system and fuel tank has being replaced by a smooth-surfaced battery. The new Mercedes EQA features Aerodynamic design of front and rear aprons, wheel spoilers with wedge-shaped profile at the front, wheel spoilers at the rear and gets improved sealing of radiator section to ensure efficient use of cooling air. The new EQA also features aerodynamically optimised alloy wheels and exterior mirrors.
3. Partially automated driving
The new Mercedes Benz EQA features a range of intelligent driving assistance systems with cooperative driver support. The enhanced functions of the Driving Assistance Package include, for example, the turning manoeuvre function, the emergency corridor function, the exit warning function alerting the driver to approaching cyclists or vehicles, and a warning when pedestrians are detected near zebra crossings. In certain situations the EQA is able to drive in partially automated mode. To do this, it keeps a close eye on the traffic situation. Improved camera and radar systems allow it to see far ahead. The Mercedes EQA also uses map and navigation data for assistance functions.
4. Adaptive damping system
As standard the Mercedes Benz EQA features a MacPherson suspension and a sophisticated four-link suspension at the rear. The optional suspension with Adaptive Damping System offers the driver the possibility of choosing their preferred damping characteristics.
5. ECO assist
The ECO Assist offers a recuperation process optimised to the particular situation. It takes into account navigation data, traffic sign recognition and information from the vehicle sensors in its efficiency strategy. Anticipatory driving saves power, thereby extending the range.
6. Drive range of over 500 km
The new Mercedes Benz EQA 250 is powered by a 140 kW electric motor which produces 375 Nm of torque and a range according to NEDC of 480 km. The EQA 250 with a top speed of 160 km/h reaches 0 to 100 km/h in 8.9 seconds. The EQA will also be available with more powerful variants with over 270 hp and all-wheel-drive with a drive range of over 500 km.
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7. 4MATIC All-wheel drive
The more powerful versions of the Mercedes Benz EQA will be fitted with an additional electric powertrain (eATS) at the rear axle and therefore feature all-wheel drive. The 4MATIC system uses Torque Shift: the distribution of the torque is adjusted 100 times per second as required on a continuously variable basis between the two electric units at the front and rear axles. If the driver does not call for the full output, the motor that is not needed will be completely switched off in order to reduce the base load. In a low load range therefore, the reliance will be on the rear axle with the more efficient, permanently excited synchronous motor (PSM). Higher performance requirements will be met through the additional activation of the asynchronous motor (ASM) on the front axle.
8. Mercedes me Charge
The new Mercedes Benz EQA’s Navigation with Electric Intelligence calculates the fastest route currently possible, taking into account various factors. If a charging stop is required, the driver will be directed to a charging station. Mercedes me Charge allows Mercedes-EQ customers convenient use of the charging stations of various providers, while they also benefit from an integrated payment function with simple billing processes. Mercedes me Charge enables customers to charge at more than 175,000 public charging points throughout Europe.
9. Special colour scheme
The new Mercedes EQA can be personalised with either of the two design and equipment lines Electric Art and AMG Line, as well as with the Night Package. The Mercedes Benz will also get an Edition 1 special model. The Edition 1 is available for one year from the launch of the EQA. Its exterior features include the AMG black panel radiator grille, AMG bodystyling for the front and rear bumpers, shoulderline trim strip in chrome and 20-inch, rosé gold-coloured AMG multispoke wheels.
10. URBAN GUARD Vehicle Protection
In conjunction with Mercedes me, the new EQA gets two packages URBAN GUARD Vehicle Protection and URBAN GUARD Vehicle Protection Plus enable all-round monitoring of the parked vehicle. URBAN GUARD comprises an anti-theft alarm system, tow-away protection with visual and acoustic warning in the case of a detected change in position, an alarm siren, interior monitoring as well as a preinstallation for theft and parking collision detection. In the case of the latter, the vehicle sensors register when the parked and locked vehicle is bumped or towed – or when someone attempts to break into the vehicle. If the service is active, the driver is informed via the Mercedes me App.