Fans of V8 power might miss the sound of a petrol engine, but they won’t miss out on crazy acceleration brought by the new generation of fast cars.
The Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 is coming to Australia.
Mercedes’ rival to the Tesla Model S and Porsche Taycan is boarding a flight to Australia, packing enormous punch in its carry-on luggage.
The luxury brand has unveiled the AMG-tuned version of the electric Mercedes-Benz EQE luxury sedan.
The Mercedes-AMG EQE 53
It follows in the wheel tracks of the new AMG EQS model and V8-powered Mercedes-AMG E63 sedan by offering outrageous power in an otherwise sensible package.
Mercedes says the new EQE 53 has a whopping 505kW and 1000NM of thrust, enough to reach 100km/h in just 3.3 seconds.
Less powerful versions bring 350kW/858Nm or 460kW/950Nm to the table.
The EQE 53 has an aerodynamic silhouette.
The flagship model isn’t quite as punchy as the 560kW Porsche’s Taycan Turbo S (which will hit 100km/h in 2.8 seconds) or the upcoming Tesla Model S Plaid (which promises 760kW and a 2.1 second sprint to the speed limit).
A decision to use mid-range “53” badges on the new beast suggests Mercedes-AMG might be saving something special for a full-fat “63” model pitched in line with its halo performance cars.
Mercedes’ latest electric cars have huge digital displays.
Even so, the new model has more thrust than the 450kW and 850Nm brought by the current Mercedes-AMG E63 S and its rumbling V8 engine.
Benz says a new “AMG sound experience” in the hot EQE uses seat-shaking speakers, a “bass actuator” and “sound generator” to “emotionally enhance the driving experience.
Other performance elements include 21-inch wheels with sticky tyres, optional carbon-ceramic brakes, and a digital coaching app for racetrack excursions.
Most of the car is shared with the regular EQE electric sedan, including a new “hyperscreen” stretching the width of the dashboard.
Mercedes says passengers will be able to watch videos and browse the web using the huge display, though the feature might not be legal while driving in all markets.
Keyword: Mercedes reveals 505kW electric muscle car