Production of Mercedes-Benz EQC fully electric crossover to begin in 2019
After first showing its dedicated electric-only EQ line to the world back at the Paris Motor in 2016, Mercedes-Benz has finally unveiled the first offering: the EQC.
While being a truly zero-emissions EV, it is 100 per cent European performance luxury. Sitting low to the ground with an extended sloping roofline and slim windows, the crossover boasts similar features to the other SUV “coupes” found in the German automaker’s current portfolio. The front and rear, however, is where the vehicle is truly unique.
MULTIBEAM LED headlamps are joined to a black panel surface and forms a singular unit with the grille, which has a thin light strip running across the top giving the EQC a signature look at night. This upper fascia shape is mirrored by the large air intake below. On the other end, the tail lamps are connected, joined in the middle across the tailgate in a fashion similar to the new Porsche Cayennes.
In the cabin, the “avant-garde electro look” is sure to wow occupants. There’s lots of blue accenting to identify the model as a member of the EQ family, and high-tech details such as ribbing on the edge of the instrument panel made to resemble the ribs on a hi-fi amplifier. Instead of conventional round air vents, the units are flattened and have rose-gold coloured louvres.
With electric motors installed front and rear — the former optimized for efficiency in the light to medium load range and the latter for high output — the EQC is all-wheel drive and generates a net 402 horsepower and 564 lb-ft of torque. An on-board 80 kilowatt-hour battery provides a maximum range of approximately 450 kilometres.
Like other EVs, there is available climate control preconditioning, via the infotainment system or the Mercedes me smartphone app, to bring the interior temperature to a desired level prior to driving off. When entering a destination into the navigation system, the computer chooses the fastest route taking into account energy reserve levels.
Production of the Mercedes-Benz EQC is scheduled for 2019 and the vehicle will be built in Bremen, Germany.
