Mercedes-Benz is going all-electric (sort of). The world’s oldest automaker last week announced plans to sell nothing but electric cars in markets that build the infrastructure to support them by 2030. The next step in its electric vehicle (EV) plans is the EQE sedan, which will make its full debut at the Munich auto show in September. Mercedes has released teaser photos of the car, along with a few choice details, to hold us over until then.
EV Lineup Alongside Gas Lineup for Now
Early in its transition, Mercedes’ strategy is to build its traditional lineup of gasoline cars alongside an EV equivalent of each. The company has already unveiled the ultra-luxury EQS alongside its top-of-the-line S-Class superluxury car. Now, the EQE is to the slightly more affordable E-Class as the EQS is to the S-Class.
A Curvier Mercedes
Heavily shadowed photos show a long, curving greenhouse that takes up much of the car’s real estate. Short overhangs in the front and rear make it more aerodynamic than the traditional shape of big Mercedes sedans. A thin light bar spans the rear of the car, between narrow taillights that feature a helix pattern.
The larger EQS brought a curvier look than its S-Class sibling as well. We expect this theme to continue as Mercedes introduces more EV equivalents of its gas-powered cars.
One Cabin-Spanning Screen
One Cabin-Spanning ScreenInside, the big news is the arrival of the hyperscreen. Appearing first on the EQS, it’s a massive screen that essentially takes up the entire dashboard, apart from air vents. The hyperscreen is an option on the more expensive EQS, so it will almost certainly require an added fee in the EQE.
Even buyers who don’t opt for the massive display are probably in for a treat, though. Mercedes designers have been on a roll lately with glorious interiors. Though the images are dark, it’s obvious that the EQE features extensive cool blue accent lighting and stylishly sculpted lines around plush seats with built-in ventilation.
Mechanical Details a Mystery for Now
The EQE, we’re told, is built on the same platform as the EQS. That likely means a choice between rear-wheel-drive (RWD), with a motor mounted to the rear axle, and all-wheel-drive (AWD) with a motor mounted to each axle. Power will likely be a slight step down from what its big brother offers (329 horsepower in RWD, 516 in AWD), and range could be over 300 miles.
Mercedes will be bringing other electric toys to the Munich show, including, it says, an EV from its high-performance AMG division and another from its ultra-luxe Maybach division.
