Mercedes-Benz at IAA Mobility: Electric Vehicle Innovations

Mercedes-Benz Accelerates Transition to All-Electric Future

Prior to the IAA Mobility show in Germany, Mercedes-Benz unveiled a range of electric vehicles. This included the debut of its inaugural high-performance EV bearing the AMG brand, alongside a sedan model and a concept version of the iconic G-Class SUV.

Strategic Shift Towards Electrification

These introductions represent a significant step in the company’s ambitious strategy to transition to an exclusively electric automaker before the close of this decade.

Mercedes-Benz has already commenced production of the fully-electric EQS. This technologically advanced and elegantly designed vehicle serves as the electric equivalent to the flagship S-Class.

Investment and Integration

Earlier in the year, the automaker detailed its substantial €40 billion (approximately $47 billion) investment plan dedicated to electric vehicle development.

This plan focuses on increasing vertical integration within the company, providing comprehensive training for its workforce, and securing a reliable supply of batteries to power its expanding product line.

Building on Previous Electrification Goals

This current initiative builds upon earlier objectives established in 2017. At that time, Mercedes-Benz announced its intention to offer electrified versions – encompassing gas-hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and battery-electric options – across its entire vehicle lineup by 2022.

Furthermore, the German manufacturer stated in July that it will provide battery-electric vehicles in every market segment it currently serves by the following year.

New Electric Architectures

Mercedes-Benz intends to introduce three dedicated electric-only architectures in 2025. These platforms will serve as the foundation for all future vehicle development.

• MB.EA will be utilized for medium to large passenger cars.
• AMG.EA will underpin the high-performance Mercedes-AMG models.
• VAN.EA will be a dedicated architecture for electric passenger minivans and light commercial vehicles.

The company has also previously announced its “electric first” compact car architecture, known as MMA, which is slated to appear in vehicles beginning in 2024.

Accelerating the EV Transition

“The shift towards electric vehicles is gaining momentum, particularly within the luxury segment where Mercedes-Benz holds a prominent position,” stated Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz, during the announcement of the new EQE details.

“Consequently, we are accelerating our approach from ‘EV-first’ to ‘EV-only.’ By next year, we will offer battery-electric options across all segments, and by 2025, we will have at least one electric alternative for every model in our portfolio.”

Sales Targets for Electric Vehicles

Källenius indicated that the automaker’s goal is to achieve a sales ratio of one electric vehicle for every two Mercedes cars sold, contingent on favorable market conditions, by the year 2030.

Mercedes-Benz EQB

The EQB crossover was showcased at a recent Mercedes-Benz event, following its initial unveiling earlier in the year.

Further specifications were disclosed, notably the confirmation of its availability in the United States starting in 2022.

Prior to its U.S. arrival, the vehicle will be released in both Europe and China by the end of the current year.

Production and Variants

The EQB will be the inaugural all-electric production model originating from Mercedes-Benz’s facility in Kecskemét, Hungary.

Production for the Chinese market is already underway in Beijing.

Upon its launch in the U.S., the EQB will be offered in two distinct configurations.

• The EQB 300 4MATIC, delivering 168 kW (255 hp).
• The EQB 350 4MATIC, producing 215 kW (288 hp).

The EQB 300 4MATIC generates 390 lb-ft of torque.

Both variants are projected to achieve a range of approximately 419 kilometers (260 miles).

Mercedes-Benz has indicated that extended-range versions, alongside a front-wheel drive model, will be introduced subsequently.

Powertrain Details

The electric powertrain is designed as a compact, all-in-one unit.

It integrates an electric motor, a fixed-ratio transmission with a differential, a cooling system, and power electronics.

An asynchronous motor powers the front axle.

Interior Space and Flexibility

The EQB is equipped with five seats as standard.

However, it can be reconfigured to accommodate up to seven passengers, providing enhanced versatility for larger families or those requiring additional space.

Mercedes-Benz EQE350

The EQE sedan represents Mercedes-Benz’s offering for drivers seeking the luxury of the flagship EQS model, but at a more accessible price point.

This vehicle is powered by a single electric motor, generating 288 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque.

Interestingly, this output is slightly lower – by approximately 41 hp – than that of the EQS.

Battery and Range

The EQE utilizes a 90 kWh battery pack, providing a substantial range of around 660 kilometers, which translates to approximately 410 miles.

Furthermore, utilizing fast charging capabilities, an additional 250 kilometers (155 miles) of range can be added within a mere 15-minute charging session.

A second model variant will be introduced at the time of market launch, though specific details regarding its configuration remain undisclosed by Mercedes-Benz.

Key Features and Interior Space

The EQE incorporates many of the advanced features found in the EQS, including a sophisticated driver assistance system.

Convenience is enhanced through features like automatically opening front doors and rear-axle steering for improved maneuverability.

The optional MBUX Hyperscreen, a comprehensive multiscreen connected entertainment system, is also available.

Despite its reduced exterior dimensions, the EQE boasts a spacious interior.

• It offers 27 mm more front seat shoulder room.
• The seating position is elevated by 65 mm.
• Overall cabin length is increased by 80 mm compared to the existing E-Class.

Production and Launch

The EQE marks the fourth all-electric EQ vehicle unveiled by the automaker this year.

According to Källenius, both SUV versions of the EQS and EQE are slated for release in the near future.

Production will be strategically located in Bremen, Germany, for global distribution, and in Beijing, China, to serve the Chinese market.

A phased global rollout is anticipated to commence in mid-2022.

Mercedes-Benz is actively expanding its electric vehicle lineup with models like the EQE350.

Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+

Experience a new level of electric performance. The AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ represents the inaugural all-electric AMG production vehicle, engineered upon the EQ platform. Manufactured in Affalterbach, it is designed to seamlessly integrate zero-emission technology with substantial power, dynamic handling, and refined luxury.

To amplify this sensation, the vehicle incorporates specialized components both internally and externally. A dedicated sound system is also included, allowing the car to emit an AMG-characteristic sound during operation, enriching the experience for both occupants and onlookers.

Powertrain and Performance

The AMG EQS boasts dual AMG electric motors, delivering a combined system output of 484 kW, equivalent to 658 horsepower. Utilizing the “race start” function unlocks an increased output of 560 kW or 761 hp, alongside 742 lb-ft of torque.

This potent powertrain enables acceleration from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour (0-60 mph) in just 3.4 seconds, with a maximum speed electronically limited to 250 kilometers per hour (155 mph).

Battery and Range

A sophisticated recuperative braking system recovers energy during deceleration, channeling it back into the battery. The battery pack offers a total capacity of 108 kWh, providing a range of up to 580 kilometers (360 miles).

Furthermore, the vehicle supports rapid DC charging at rates exceeding 200 kW, minimizing downtime during replenishment.

Production and Availability

Production of the AMG EQS is taking place at the carbon-neutral “Factory 56” facility, located at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Sindelfingen, near Stuttgart. Market launch is anticipated towards the end of 2021.

Mercedes Concept EQG

Enthusiasm surrounds the arrival of the “mighty G!” The EQG represents an electric off-road concept based on the iconic G-Class. It successfully blends the robust character of the 4x4 G-Class with the forward-thinking luxury associated with the EQ model range.

Key Features and Specifications

While Mercedes-Benz has not yet released comprehensive specifications, as the EQG is still undergoing development, several details have been confirmed. The vehicle incorporates a configuration of four electric motors.

These motors deliver substantial power and are strategically positioned near each wheel. This placement enables independent control of each wheel, enhancing performance and capability.

• A newly designed rear axle has been implemented.
• A two-speed gearbox is included, optimizing performance for both on-road and off-road conditions.

Rigorous Testing

The EQG’s off-road capabilities will be thoroughly evaluated at Mercedes-Benz’s dedicated test facility. Testing will occur on the Schöckl mountain in Graz, which reaches a height of 1,445 meters.

This challenging terrain will serve as the proving ground during the final stages of development before the vehicle transitions into a production model. The Schöckl mountain provides a demanding environment to validate the EQG’s performance and durability.

Mercedes-Maybach Concept

An entirely electric Maybach is poised to debut, marking a significant first in the long and storied history of this traditionally-powered vehicle. The Maybach EQS concept seamlessly blends iconic design elements from classic Maybach models with the advanced electric drive technology of the EQ series.

The vehicle exudes luxury and sophistication. Its interior, finished in white piano lacquer, presents a plush and streamlined aesthetic, reminiscent of the opulent transportation seen in science fiction films.

Interior and Comfort

The cabin is designed to provide a supremely comfortable environment for both work and relaxation. Optional “executive seats” and a “chauffeur package” further enhance the passenger experience.

Performance and Availability

Mercedes-Benz anticipates the SUV will become available in 2023. However, the underlying platform for future SUVs will be unveiled as early as the following year.

The projected range for the Maybach EQS is approximately 600 kilometers, which translates to around 373 miles on a single charge.

Key Features

• First all-electric Maybach model.
• Combines classic Maybach styling with EQ technology.
• Luxurious white piano lacquer interior.
• Optional executive seating and chauffeur package.
• Expected range of 600 kilometers (373 miles).

The two-tone paint finish is a nod to the heritage of the brand, while the electric powertrain signals a commitment to the future of sustainable mobility.

This concept demonstrates Mercedes-Benz’s ambition to redefine luxury in the electric vehicle segment.