Mercedes Unveils Its Baby BEV

Paul Myles

TU-Editor

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20th January 2021

Mercedes-Benz has released powertrain details of its entry-level BEV, dubbed the Mercedes EQA.

The compact crossover is the first in an all-electric Mercedes-EQ family and launches as the EQA 250. To be built simultaneously in Rastatt, Germany, and Beijing, its batteries are supplied by the Mercedes-Benz subsidiary Accumotive in Kamenz. The battery factory in Jawor, Poland, is also preparing to produce battery systems for the compact Mercedes-EQ models.

The EQA 250 claims a combined electric consumption of 15.7kWh/62miles with claimed power output equivalent to 190bhp, 276ft-lbs of torque and a range according to WLTP of 264 miles. Performance claims include a 0-62mph sprint time of 8.9 seconds and a top speed of 99mph. The “double-decker” lithium-ion battery, which sits as a structural element within the underbody of the vehicle, has an energy content of 66.5kWh.

A trailer coupling with ESP trailer stabilization is available as an option for the EQA with an unlocking switch and indicator lamp are located within the tailgate. Once the ball coupling has been unlocked it can either be pivoted out or, when not in use, pivoted back behind the bumper trim. The towing capacity (unbraked/ braked) of the EQA 250 is 750kgs (1,650lbs), the tongue weight 80kgs (97lbs). The trailer coupling has been approved for use with a bicycle rack. The all-wheel-drive models will offer an even higher towing capacity.

Markus Schäfer, COO member of the board of management of Daimler and Mercedes-Benz, said: “The new EQA allows us to show the way we envisage e-mobility as tailored to the needs of our customers. We will offer a whole family of EQA models, with output ranging from 140 through to more than 200kW, and with front-wheel as well as all-wheel drive. And for those for whom the issue of range is particularly important, our portfolio will in due course also include a special version of the EQA with a radius of more than 500km (310 miles) according to WLTP.”

From the spring of 2021, the car will be available from the European dealerships priced from €39,950 ($48,402) before subsidies.

— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in London. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_