Friday, December 3, 2021

Mercedes Benz EQB compact crossover EV goes on sale


This is Mercedes' latest EV salvo, the compact EQB crossover. The cool thing about Mercedes of late is their advancement of the EV marketplace by showing a battery-electric vehicle in just about every size class including a G-Wagen concept EQG that should see production. The EQB has joined the full-size EQS sedan in production with EQB deliveries starting this month in Germany. Let's hope that Mercedes brings this EV to the US soon. The EQB comes in two trim levels the EQB 300 and the EQB 350 with numerous optional packages like the Advance Package, the Advance Package Plus, and more. The EQB 300 makes about 230 hp, hits 60 from a standstill in under 8 seconds, and has a range of 260 miles. The EQB 350 (the version most likely to come to the US) makes almost 300 horsepower, hits 60 in around 6 seconds and also has a 260 mile range. Both models feature 4Matic all-wheel drive. Prices given are in Euros, but hint that these vehicles will not be price-leaders with an MSRP in the mid to high five-figure range. Expect most of Mercedes' safety and tech as standard with other equipment available as an option. This is a good-looking seven-passenger compact crossover that we hope makes it to the US. For more information, click on "read more" below to view the multiple media releases, a spec chart, and two videos. Enjoy!

Source: Mercedes Benz - Media Releases (2), pics, and videos (2). Previous post



Media Release 1:

Sales launch of the EQB: The second all-electric compact from Mercedes-EQ

 The EQB can now be ordered with prices starting at 55,311.20 euros[1]. In Germany, an environmental bonus of 7500 euros[2] makes this compact electric family car especially attractive. The EQB offers five seats as standard, and a seven-seater is an option for an extra 1416.10 euros. After the EQA, the EQB is already the second all-electric compact from Mercedes-EQ.

The model range initially comprises the EQB 300 4MATIC (combined power consumption: 19.4-18.1 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km)[3] with 168 kW and the EQB 350 4MATIC (combined power consumption: 19.4-18.1 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km)3 with 215 kW. Prices for the more powerful version start at 57,988.70 euros. The EQB comes with one year of Mercedes me Charge for free. Mercedes me Charge provides Mercedes-EQ customers with convenient access to a network of over 600,000 charging points worldwide. At the same time, they benefit from an integrated payment function with simple invoicing.

The EQB is available as the Edition 1 (8520.40 euros1) for a limited time following the market launch. The exterior of this limited-edition special model combines elements of the Night Package with AMG body styling. 20-inch AMG light-alloy wheels, painted in matt copper with a high-sheen finish, round off the sporty appearance. Highlights of the Edition 1 interior include the upholstery in neva grey leather with CYBER CUT blue, the back-lit spiral-look trim element and ventilation nozzles with outer ring in silver chrome and air guide ring in energy blue.

The EQB is optionally available in the Electric Art variant unique to Mercedes-EQ (940.10 euros1). Colour accents in modern rosé gold are used to embellish the upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather / Cupertino fabric and the air vents. The spiral-look trim element is back-lit. The equipment line also includes special 18‑inch two-tone light-alloy wheels.

Here are the key optional extras and packages:

  • The third row of seats with two additional individual seats (1416.10 euros1) comfortably accommodates people up to 1.65 metres tall. Extensive safety features include retractable head restraints, seat belts with belt tensioners and force limiters on all outer seats and a side window airbag that also covers passengers in the third row.
  • The Advanced Package (included with Edition 1; otherwise 2570.40 euros1) adds comfort and safety extras to the standard equipment of the EQB. In the interior, two 10.25-inch displays merge to form a Widescreen Cockpit. The driver is supported by the Mirror Package and the Parking Package with reversing camera.
  • The Advanced Plus Package (3677.10 euros1) builds on the Advanced Package and enhances comfort even further. It includes the KEYLESS-GO Convenience Package, THERMOTRONIC two-zone automatic climate control, an audio system delivering impressive sound and wireless smartphone charging.
  • The EQB features intelligent driving assistance systems with cooperative support for the driver. The Driving Assistance Package[4] (1439 euros1) offers expanded functions. They include, among others, the turning manoeuvre function, the emergency corridor function, the exit warning function that detects approaching cyclists or vehicles as well as a warning function that detects people in the area of zebra crossings.

The models at a glance:



Mercedes-Benz Bank offers attractive financing and leasing terms for the EQB for both private and business customers. Vehicle insurance coverage including electric protection[7] can be purchased online. These incorporate special benefits such as all-risk coverage for the battery, or insurance that includes the charging cable. Of particular interest is the InScore telematics-based insurance. With this, up to 30 percent of the premium can be saved through your own driving behaviour.

[1] Suggested retail price in Germany including 19% VAT

[2] The environmental bonus is designed to promote the purchase and registration of new all-electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids. The subsidy for new vehicles appearing on the list of eligible models is essentially shared 50:50 between automotive manufacturers and the federal government. For a limited period until 31 December 2021, an innovation bonus will apply that doubles the government's share of the environmental bonus for vehicles registered since 3 June 2020. The environmental bonus as an innovation bonus for new electric vehicles with a net list price of > €40.000 and < €65,000 is €7500 (state share: €5000, manufacturer share: €2500). The manufacturer's share of the environmental bonus will be automatically deducted from the net list price. The level of payment and eligibility to claim the innovation bonus and/or environmental bonus are regulated by the guidelines found on the website of the Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (www.bafa.de/umweltbonus). Payment of the innovation bonus or of the environmental bonus does not constitute a legal right. Receiving the government share of the subsidy is subject to approval of the application by the Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA). The environmental bonus will end once the available funds are exhausted, but at the latest by 31 December 2025.

[3] The stated figures are the measured "WLTP CO2 figures" in accordance with Article 2 No. 1 Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/1153. The fuel consumption figures were calculated on the basis of these figures. The WLTP figure is relevant for the assessment of motor vehicle tax.

[4] Comprising Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Steering Assist with Active Emergency Assist and emergency corridor function, Active Speed Limit Assist, Evasive Steering Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Brake Assist with turning manoeuvre and cross-traffic function as well as PRE-SAFE® PLUS

[5] Electronically limited

[6] The figures shown are the WLTP CO2 figures measured according to Article 2 No. 3 Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/1153.

[7] Insurer: HDI Versicherung AG, HDI-Platz 1, 30659 Hanover, Germany, brokered by Mercedes-Benz Bank AG, Siemensstrasse 7, 70469 Stuttgart, Germany. The General Insurance Terms and Conditions apply.


Media Release 2:
The new EQB: family-size electric mobility

Essential information and innovations

Room for seven

The EQB offers five seats as standard and is optionally available as a seven-seater. It therefore offers space for many family constellations and the most diverse transport needs. This gives it an exceptional position among compact electric cars. The two seats in the third row can be used by people up to 1.65 metres tall, and child seats can also be fitted there.

Compact on the outside, spacious on the inside

The EQB (length/width/height: 4,684/1,834 /1,667 millimeters) has a generous amount of space thanks to the long wheelbase of the GLB (2,829 millimeters). The load volume is 495 to 1,710 or 465 to 1,620 liters (data for five- or seven-seaters). The backrests of the seats in the second row are adjustable in several steps in the inclination as standard, on request this row can be moved by 140 millimeters in length.

The compact class becomes increasingly electric

After the EQA, the EQB is already the second all-electric compact car from Mercedes-EQ. At the same time, it will be the first purely electrically powered production vehicle from the Kecskemét plant in Hungary. The vehicles for China are produced in Beijing.

Customers have the choice

The range initially includes the EQB 300 4MATIC (combined electrical consumption NEDC: 16.2 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km)[1] with 168 kW and the EQB 350 4MATIC (combined electrical consumption NEDC: 16.2 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km)1 with 215 kW. A front-wheel drive model will follow. A particularly long-range version is also planned.

Electro design aesthetics

The EQB interprets Mercedes-EQ's Progressive Luxury in an edgy and particularly characterful way. It features the characteristic Mercedes-EQ black panel grille with central star. A further distinctive design feature of the all-electric world of Mercedes-EQ vehicles is the continuous light strip at the front and rear.

Navigation with Electric Intelligence

The standard Navigation with Electric Intelligence contributes to the effortless handling of the EQB in everyday life. It calculates the fastest route to the destination, taking into account maximum charging power and the duration of possible charging stops. In addition, the Navigation with Electric Intelligence ensures that the high-voltage battery is brought to an optimal charging temperature before a planned charging stop, if required.

One year of Mercedes me Charge included

By means of high-quality certificates of origin, Mercedes-Benz guarantees that energy from renewable energy sources is fed into the grid for charging current sourced via Mercedes me Charge. With Mercedes me Charge, customers can charge at more than 250,000 public charging stations across Europe, where Mercedes-Benz ensures subsequent compensation through green electricity. With the EQB, one year of Mercedes me Charge is included.

[1] The electrical consumption (and information based thereon) has been determined on the basis of Commission Regulation (EC) 692/2008 according to NEDC and Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151 according to WLTP

EQB: all-electric compact SUV with up to seven seats


Whether it's for a large nuclear family or a small extended family: as a seven-seater, the new EQB offers space for many family configurations and a wide variety of transport needs. This gives it an exceptional position among compact electric cars. The two seats in the third row can be used by people up to 1.65 metres tall, and child seats can also be fitted there. The new EQB will launch in Europe and China at the end of the year, followed by the US market launch in 2022. After the EQA, it is already the second all-electric compact car from Mercedes-EQ. The powerful and efficient electric drive, clever recuperation and predictive Navigation with Electric Intelligence are just some of the features that link it to the EQA.

The electric initiative from Mercedes-Benz Cars is accelerating as fast as the Mercedes-EQ models themselves: with the EQA, EQB, the electric business saloon EQE and the luxury saloon EQS, a total of four new models from Mercedes-EQ are being introduced in 2021, plus the Concept EQT as a harbinger of a new high level of quality in the small van segment. The Mercedes-Benz plug-in hybrid family, currently consisting of more than 20 model variants, is being renewed with electrified derivatives of the C-Class and the S-Class. For 2021, Mercedes-Benz Cars expects to increase the xEV share, i.e. of plug-in hybrids and fully electric vehicles, to around 13 percent. In addition, mild hybrids with a starter-generator and 48-volt system are conquering the product range, especially of the Group's luxury vehicles.

"With the new EQB we have designed an iconic electric SUV which incorporates the square forms of our off-roaders and projects them into the future. Its significant silhouette is combined with futuristic elements such as the black panel front to create the extraordinary look of this vehicle", says Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer of the Daimler Group.

In Europe, the all-electric compact SUV will be launched as the EQB 300 4MATIC (combined electrical consumption NEDC: 16.2 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km)[1] with 168 kW and as the EQB 350 4MATIC with 215 kW (combined electrical consumption NEDC: 16.2 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km)1. The ranges according to WLTP are 419 kilometres in each case. Further variants to meet specific customer requirements will follow, including a particularly long-range version.

Generous space and variable, level boot

The EQB enriches the successful Mercedes compact car family and is closely related to two models in particular: to the EQA, whose advanced drive technology it shares, and to the GLB compact SUV. This is where the long wheelbase (2829 millimetres), the spacious and variable interior and the optional third row of seats with two additional individual seats come from.

The dimensions of the five-seater: 4684/1834/1667 millimetres (length/width[2]/height). Space is generous. The headroom in the first row of seats is 1035 millimetres, in the second it is 979 millimetres for the five-seater. At 87 millimetres, the knee space in the rear of the five-seater reaches a comfortable level. The boot is level and spacious: the load volume of 495 to 1710 or 465 to 1620 litres (figures for five- and seven-seaters respectively) has the qualities of a Mid-range station wagon. The backrests of the seats in the second row can be adjusted in several stages as standard, and this row features fore/aft adjustment of 140 millimetres as an option. This enables the boot to be enlarged by up to 190 litres and put to versatile use.

As an option, the EQB has a third row of seats comprising two extra individual seats. The seats offer people up to a height of 1.65 metres a comfortable amount of space. Extensive safety features include retractable head restraints, seat belts with belt tensioners and force limiters on all outer seats and a side windowbag that also covers passengers in the third row. A total of up to four child seats can be fitted in rows two and three, plus one more in the front passenger seat. To increase luggage space, the third-row seats can be lowered flush into the load floor.

Electro design aesthetics brimming with character

The EQB interprets Mercedes-EQ's Progressive Luxury in an edgy and particularly characterful way. It features the characteristic Mercedes-EQ black panel grille with central star. A further distinctive design feature of the all-electric world of Mercedes-EQ vehicles is the continuous light strip at the front and rear. A horizontal fibre-optic strip connects the daytime running lights of the full-LED headlamps, ensuring a high level of recognisability both in daylight and at night. The inside of the headlamps is finished to a high level of quality, detail and precision. Blue colour highlights within the headlamp reinforce the signature Mercedes-EQ appearance.

The function-oriented greenhouse with upright windscreen makes the comfortable interior possible. Circumferential and protective cladding elements structure the overall proportion. The muscular and sensuously modelled vehicle shoulder dominates the side view, which is further enhanced by the rise of the beltline. Outwardly positioned wheels give the EQB a powerful character and confident stance on the road. Exclusive to this model are light-alloy wheels in a bi- or tri-colour design, up to 20 inches in size, in some cases with rosé gold-coloured or blue decorative trim.

The LED tail lights merge seamlessly into the tapering LED light strip. This underlines the horizontal sense of width of the EQB in the rear view. In addition, the number plate is placed on the bumper, which allows for a beautifully sculpted tailgate. The studded roof rails underline the high utility value of the new EQB.

The large body of the dashboard has a cut-out in the driver and passenger area. The driver faces a Widescreen Cockpit, with control and display via MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience). The robust character of the interior is underlined by tubular elements in an aluminium look. They sit as handles in the doors, in the centre console and in the instrument panel on the passenger side.

Depending on the design and equipment line, a spectacular backlit trim piece and rosé gold-coloured decorative elements on the air vents, seats and vehicle key provide clues to the electric character in the interior of the EQB. The instruments, with their electric car-specific displays, pick up on the same colour scheme with rosé gold-coloured and blue highlights.

The EQB achieves a very good Cd value from 0.28. The frontal area A totals 2.53 m2. Among the most important aerodynamic measures are the completely closed cooling air control system in the upper section, the aerodynamically efficient front and rear aprons, a very smooth, almost completely enclosed underbody, specially optimised Aero wheels and specifically adapted front and rear wheel spoilers.

Efficient driving pleasure and Navigation with Electric Intelligence

ECO Assist offers a recuperation process optimised to the particular situation. It incorporates navigation data, traffic sign recognition and information from the vehicle sensors into its efficiency strategy. Anticipatory driving saves power, thereby extending the range.

The standard Navigation with Electric Intelligence also contributes to the effortless handling of the EQB in everyday life. This calculates the fastest route to the given destination. On the basis of continual range simulations, the system makes allowance for any necessary charging stops as well as for numerous other factors, such as the topography and the weather. It is also able to react dynamically to changes, for instance in the traffic situation or personal driving style. In addition, the Navigation with Electric Intelligence ensures that the high-voltage battery is brought to an optimal charging temperature before a planned charging stop, if required.

Sophisticated charging technology, large network and compensation through green electricity

At home or at public charging stations, the EQB can be conveniently charged at up to 11 kW with alternating current (AC) using the onboard charger. The charging time required for a full charge depends on the available infrastructure and the country-specific vehicle equipment. Charging at a Mercedes-Benz Wallbox is considerably faster than at a domestic power socket.

And it is of course even faster at direct current (DC) fast-charging stations. Depending on the SoC (State of Charge) and the temperature of the high-voltage battery, the EQB charges at a corresponding charging station with a maximum power of up to 100 kW. The charging time is then just over 30 minutes from 10-80 percent SoC. And after just 15 minutes, electricity is recharged for up to another 150 kilometers (WLTP)[3].For AC and DC charging, the EQB is equipped as standard in Europe and the USA with a CCS (Combined Charging Systems) connector in the right-hand side panel.

Via Mercedes me Charge, EQB drivers will be able to use one of the most extensive charging networks in the world: this currently comprises more than 600,000 AC and DC charging stations across 31 countries. Mercedes me Charge allows Mercedes-EQ customers convenient use of the charging stations of various providers, while they also benefit from an integrated payment function with simple billing processes. With the EQB, one year of Mercedes me Charge is included.

In Europe, Mercedes-Benz guarantees by means of high-quality certificates of origin that electricity from renewable energies is fed into the grid for charging volumes that flow via Mercedes me Charge. With Mercedes me Charge, customers can charge at more than 250,000 public charging stations across Europe, where Mercedes-Benz ensures subsequent compensation through green electricity.

Cooperative support for the driver and high level of crash safety

The EQB features intelligent driving assistance systems with cooperative support for the driver. Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Brake Assist are fitted as standard. In many critical situations, the latter has the ability to prevent a collision or reduce its severity with autonomous braking. The system is also able to brake for stationary vehicles and crossing pedestrians at typical city speeds. The enhanced functions of the Driving Assistance Package include, for example, the turning manoeuvre function, the emergency corridor function, the exit warning function alerting the driver to approaching cyclists or vehicles, and a warning when pedestrians are detected near zebra crossings.

The EQB is also a true Mercedes when it comes to passive safety. Building on the robust bodyshell structure of the GLB, the body of the EQB was adapted to the special requirements of an electric car. The battery sits within a frame made out of extruded sections. This takes on a structural function which until now was maintained by the cross members in the underfloor. A battery guard in the front area of the battery is able to prevent the energy storage unit from being pierced by foreign objects.

Of course, the EQB had to pass the brand's usual extensive crash test programme. Stringent requirements for the battery and all components carrying electrical current also apply.

The EQB in the global production network

Production of the EQB will start in October 2021 at two locations within the Mercedes-Benz Cars global production network: at the Hungarian Mercedes-Benz plant in Kecskemét for the global market and at the German-Chinese joint venture BBAC in Beijing for the local market. Preparations, including staff qualification processes and reconstruction work, have already commenced at the plants. The EQB compact SUV will be the first all-electric production vehicle from Hungary and will complement the plug-in hybrid portfolio produced there.

Since it commenced production in 2012, the Hungarian Mercedes-Benz plant has continually increased in importance within the global production network of Mercedes-Benz Cars. In addition to digital networking, the strengths of the compact car production network include direct exchange with the lead plant for compact cars in Rastatt, Baden-Württemberg.

The battery systems for the compact Mercedes EQ models currently produced in Europe are supplied by the Mercedes-Benz subsidiary Accumotive in Kamenz and by the battery factory in Jawor, Poland. Both factories were designed to operate as CO₂-neutral facilities from the outset. 

[1] The electrical consumption (and information based thereon) has been determined on the basis of Commission Regulation (EC) 692/2008 according to NEDC and Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151 according to WLTP
[2] Without outside mirrors
[3] Charging speed at DC fast charging stations with 500 amps



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