Mercedes-AMG has unveiled the new entry-level EQE 43 4MATIC and sportier EQE 53 4MATIC+.
Both models have all-wheel drive systems and are based on the automaker’s EVA electric platform. They join the Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 in a widened line-up.
The EQE 43 4MATIC has two electric motors, one on the front and one on the rear axle.
This gives it a total output of 476hp, a 0-62mph sprint of 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 131mph.
The EQE 53 4MATIC+ uses AMG-specific electric motors with adapted windings and laminations, higher currents, and a specific inverter.
This enables higher engine speeds and even more power, which is particularly noticeable when accelerating and at top speeds. It develops a combined 626hp or with the optional AMD Dynamic Plus package and boost function, drivers get an even stronger 687hp.
The EQE 53 can do 0-62mph in just 3.5 seconds, and with the boost package this is lowered even further to 3.3 seconds. Depending on the equipment the top speed is between 137mph and 149mph.
Four drive modes are available with the EQE 43 – Slippery, Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus. The EQE 53 gains another mode called Race Start, which comes with the AMG Dynamic Plus Package.
Both EQE models are equipped with a 90.6kWh battery, consisting of ten modules with a total of 360 individual lithium-ion cells.
Official range figures have not been disclosed but AMG says to expect “something in the region of 310 miles”.
At rapid DC charging stations, the EVs can charge at up to 170kW, recovering 112 miles of range in just 15 minutes. They can also be charged at 11kW and 22kW with an AC system.
Both models have an upgraded air suspension, featuring a new rear axle carrier with stiffer bearings than the EQE 350. Other developments include AMG-specific wheel carriers, suspension links and anti-roll bars with higher rigidity.
The brakes have also been upgraded with 415mm discs and six-piston brake callipers on the front axle, and 378mm discs and a single-piston brake calliper on the rear axle as standard.
As an optional extra, customers can take the 440mm carbon-ceramic front discs with six-piston callipers on the front axle.
Other updates include a unique AMG sound experience with the help of special speakers, a bass actuator and sound generator. The sound can be regulated based on three drive programmes – Balanced, Sport and Powerful.
In terms of design, the models have an AMG-specific black panel grille with hot-stamped vertical struts in chrome and AMG lettering, a heavily contoured front bumper, wider sills, and a larger rear spoiler. There is a choice of aerodynamically optimised 20inch and 21inch light-alloy wheels.
Those wishing to enhance the design can choose from different styling packages, including an AMG Night Package with elements in black and darkened chrome.
The EQE 43 and 53 have a flat-bottomed AMG steering wheel in nappa leather, along with SMG sports seats, AMG floor mats and door sill trims with AMG lettering. Both models can be optionally equipped with a large, curved MBUX Hyperscreen, first seen in the EQS, that offers personalised suggestions for numerous infotainment, comfort, and vehicle functions.
Jochen Hermann, chief technical officer of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, said: “The compact format of the EQE forms the perfect starting point for realising a highly agile and very emotional driving experience with our AMG-specific solutions. This applies in particular to the areas of drive, chassis, brakes and, above all, sound. This ensures that our customers can also look forward to our brand's hallmark Driving Performance in our second all-electric model series.”