Mercedes-Benz pulled the wraps off five new battery-electric production and concept vehicles at the 2021 IAA Mobility show in Munich, Germany, continuing its rapid expansion into the EV space.
The German luxury automaker’s 2021 debuts comprise three production vehicles, including the new EQB subcompact electric crossover, AMG EQS 4Matic+ large performance sedan, and the new EQE mid-size sedan. The two concept vehicles, meanwhile, include the EQG, which is an electric version of the ever-popular G-Class, as well as the new Mercedes-Maybach EQS crossover.
Keep scrolling to learn more about Mercedes’ five IAA 2021 vehicle debuts.
Mercedes-Benz EQB
The Mercedes-Benz EQB is a battery-electric version of the existing GLB subcompact crossover. It will launch in Canada next year in one trim level only, the EQB 350 4MATIC, which will feature an all-electric, all-wheel drive powertrain producing 288 horsepower. Mercedes did not share the vehicle’s battery size, however, it will boast an estimated range of about 416 kilometres on the generous European WLTP test cycle. Pricing is also yet to be determined.
Other differences between the EQB and the related GLB include a Mercedes-EQ black panel grille, continuous front and rear LED light strip elements and model-specific alloy wheel options. Inside, the crossover features a widescreen infotainment display with the latest version of Mercedes' MBUX infotainment system, available rose coloured trim and optional third-row seating.
Mercedes-AMG EQS 4MATIC+
The Mercedes-AMG EQS 4MATIC+ is the first production electric model from the AMG performance sub-brand. This large sedan produces features a dual-motor powertrain with AMG-specific motors on the front and rear axle, which together make 658 horsepower and 750 pound-feet of torque. In “Race Start” overboost mode, the motors can briefly produce up to 750 horsepower and 750 pound-feet of torque, enabling the luxury four-door to hustle from zero to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds. The 107.8 kWh lithium-ion battery provides about 526 to 580 kilometres of range on the WLTP cycle.
Other AMG-specific parts include a new front splitter, high-gloss black chrome exterior trim, AMG side sill panels, a rear diffuser, a larger rear spoiler, 21-inch or available 22-inch AMG alloy wheels, red brake calipers and AMG-branded seats. This high-performance luxury EV is expected to arrive at Canadian Mercedes dealers next year. Pricing has yet to be announced.
Mercedes-Benz EQE
If the Mercedes-Benz EQS is the electric equivalent of the S-Class, then the EQE is parallel to the E-Class. While the EQE has much in common with the larger EQS, it offers a shorter wheelbase and smaller overhangs, making it easier to park and maneuver. This electric sedan will launch in Canada next year in the EQE 350 4MATIC trim level, which will feature a dual-motor powertrain with 288 hp. A 90-kWh lithium-ion battery will provide between 545 and 660 kilometres of range on the generous WLTP test cycle.
Notable features on the EQE include an available MBUX Hyperscreen, which transforms the entire dashboard into one widescreen display, along with Mercedes' Airmatic adaptive air suspension system and rear axle steering. Pricing and availability for the Mercedes-Benz EQE will be revealed as its planned 2022 launch date approaches.
Concept Mercedes-Benz EQG
The first of Mercedes’ two IAA 2021 concepts is the EQG – a battery-electric version of the iconic G-Class SUV. While only a concept for now, Mercedes describes this as a “near-production study,” which likely means a battery-powered G-Wagen is an inevitability.
Power in the EQG comes from four independent electric motors, which can be individually adjusted/controlled to improve the vehicle’s off-road capability. A two-speed transfer case is also present, just as it would be in any other serious off-roaders. The EQG integrates independent front suspension and a rigid axle at the rear, helping to retain some of the traditional model's old-school driving dynamics.
The EQG concept also integrates a gloss black flat-panel grille, LED headlamps, a unique gloss black roof box with an LED light strip and model-specific 22-inch wheels. A lockable square-shaped storage box replaces the full-size spare wheel that most G-Class models feature on the back, giving users a quick and easy place to store their charging cable.
Look for a production version of the Mercedes-Benz EQG concept to make its debut sometime in the not-too-distant future. It remains to be seen if such a model would be offered in Canada.
Concept Mercedes-Maybach EQS
Lastly, there’s the Mercedes-Maybach EQS concept, which is the first battery-electric model from Mercedes to wear the ritzy Maybach badge. This all-electric crossover features chrome-plated pinstripes and trim, a two-tone exterior colour scheme, narrow LED strip headlights and taillights, and huge 24-inch Maybach wheels.
The cabin, meanwhile, integrates a 12.3-inch widescreen display, high-end rear-seat entertainment system, and an AI-enabled assistant that can make seamless suggestions to the user with regard to climate control, navigation, audio settings, and more. The automaker says the debut of the ultra-luxurious Maybach EQS is a sign of a future Maybach-badged all-electric crossover, though it’s not yet clear if such a model would launch in Canada.
