A pair of AMG sedans with electrified hearts.
The electrified era is upon us. The Mercedes-Benz EV sub-brand, EQ is preparing to roll out a range of electric cars in SA before the end of the year.
While that doesn’t seem so far off, the Mercedes-AMG EQE has now made its debut in two model variants; EQE 43 4Matic and EQE 53 4Matic+ with the former leading the entry-level fold of electric driving performance and the latter focusing more on sportiness and better driving dynamics.
The two new variants come standard with a 4Matic all-wheel-drive system, thanks to two AMG-modified electric motors. The Mercedes-AMG 43 4Matic makes 350 kW of power and 858 Nm of torque while the 53 variant with 4Matic+ gushes out 460 kW and and a mountainous 950 Nm under normal driving situations.
An optional AMG Dynamic Plus Package and boost function temporarily bumps power to 505 kW while adding a whopping 1,000 Nm for short spurts.
The Mercedes-AMG EQE 43 4Matic is credited with a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 4.2 seconds en route to a top speed of 210 km/h. The performance-orientated AMG EQE 53 4Matic+ gets the same task completed in 3.5 seconds before hitting the limiter at 220 km/h. Opting for the AMG Dynamic Plus Package, the 53 4Matic+ sprints to the 100 km/h in 3.3 seconds with the top speed coming in later at 240 km/h.
Both models feature a 328-Volt high-performance battery pack with a usable energy content of 90.6 kWh. The battery pack can be replenished with up to 170 kW at fast-charging facilities that enable for up to 180 km in a matter of 15 minutes.
Buyers can also charge at the comfort of their home or at public charging stations using 11 kW or the optionally available 22 kW AC chargers. The battery can also be recharged via recuperation that reaches up to 260 kW.
As much as electric cars are generally quieter, the Mercedes-AMG EQE models are equipped with a sound system that creates a unique sound experience with the help of special speakers, a bass actuator and a sound generator.
The EQE 53 with AMG Dynamic Pluc Package is equipped with ‘Authentic’ and optional ‘Performance’ that are available in three variants each; Balanced, Sport and Powerful. The intensity of the AMG sound experience can be tuned to a specific driving status and drive programme.
Both models come standard with rear-wheel steering for enhanced maneuverbility.
Stopping power comes from an AMG high-performance brake system that consists of six-piston brake callipers and 415×33 mm brake discs on the front axle. The rear is fitted with single-piston brake callipers plus brake discs that measure 378×22 mm.
These are upgradeable to an optional AMG ceramic high-performance compound brake system with larger discs.
Inside, the new Mercedes-AMG EQE is equipped with AMG-specific seats with individual graphics and special seat covers in ARTICO leather as well as micro cut microfibre and red decorative topstitching.
Nappa leather is available optionally for seat upholstery. To serve as a reminder, there are AMG badges embodied on the backrests of the front seats and in the front head restraints.
Other AMG-specific bits and pieces include an AMG performance steering wheel in Nappa leather and AMG sports pedals, floor mats and door sill trims.
The interior is further bolstered with the optional MBUX Hyperscreen.
When it finally goes on sale, the Mercedes-AMG EQE will go head-to-head with the BMW i4 M50. The Mercedes-AMG EQE range will likely follow shortly after the non-AMG models have gone on sale. Local availability as well as pricing will be communicated closer to launch.
Keyword: New Mercedes-AMG EQE has the BMW i4 M50 in its crosshairs