Last updated on January 31st, 2021 at 05:51 pm
Mercedes has unveiled the new entry-level model to the all-electric world of Mercedes-EQ vehicles, the EQA. It slots in as a smaller, less expensive model below the existing EQC.
The electric SUV has a close relation with the GLA and combines a similar design with an efficient electric powertrain. In fact, the car is equipped with a 140kw (196 hp) engine and 66.5kWh battery that provides a range according to WLTP of 426 kilometres (266 miles). It will have a starting price of 47,540.50 Euros.
Since the initial EQA 250 is the base model, Mercedes has said that there will be other all-wheel-drive versions with an additional electric powertrain (eATS) and an output of 200 kW or more, and also a version with a range of more than 500 kilometres (WLTP). These will be welcome as the base model only offers a rather pedestrian 0-62mph acceleration of 8.9 seconds.
The EQA will be equipped with the MBUX Hyperscreen, which we reported is a large, curved screen unit that stretches almost the entire width from the left to the right A-pillar. It is equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) that makes the display and operating concept adapt completely to its user and makes personalised suggestions for numerous infotainment, comfort and vehicle functions.
Also, the car will include as standard on board Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Brake Assist. In critical situations, the purpose of the latter is to prevent a collision by means of autonomous braking, or to mitigate its severity. The system is also able to brake for stationary vehicles and crossing pedestrians at typical city speeds.
Mercedes positioned the battery within a specially developed frame made out of extruded sections and added a guard in the front area of the battery. This will protect the energy storage unit from being pierced by foreign objects, and thus also prevent consequential damage.
The EQA comes with the typical Mercedes-EQ front-end design: a “Black Panel” radiator grille with central star. A further distinctive design feature of the all-electric world of Mercedes-EQ vehicles is the continuous light strip at front and rear: a horizontal fibre-optic strip connects the daytime running lights of the full-LED headlamps, ensuring a high level of recognisability both in daylight and at night.
The new EQA is considered an important step towards the all-electric future of the company, according to Britta Seeger, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Mercedes-Benz AG.
“Progressive design and intuitive operation are two of the highlights of the EQA. With this car, for the first time we are offering our customers an all-electric Mercedes in the compact segment with an extensive range that ensures its viability in everyday use,” she said. “The new EQA is an important vehicle along our path towards the electrification of all our vehicle segments.”
