Mercedes EQC. A true Mercedes
The Mercedes EQC is a 100% electric SUV of the EQ sub-brand, which has been produced since 2018 by Daimler AG (Germany). In 2021, the first generation of the 2018 SUV is available on the Israeli market.
The Mercedes EQC is the first model of the ‘electric’ sub-brand EQ. And in 2021, the Mercedes-EQ range, presented in 2016, includes the EQB, EQC and EQA SUVs, the EQV van, the recently unveiled EQS luxury sedan and the upcoming EQE sedan. Yes, the segment of luxury electric SUVs is becoming very competitive: it’s hard to choose between the Porsche Taycan, Jaguar I-Pace, Tesla Model X, Audi Q4 e-Tron, BMW iX3 and Mercedes EQC.
Given such a tough competition, Daimler presented grandiosely the final version of its electric EQC SUV long before the start of sales. However, the manufacturer is clearly going to attract customers with its transition to electric vehicles. At the same time, the new SUV still remains a true safe, comfortable and functional Mercedes. The Mercedes EQC is produced at the plant in Bremen, Germany, in the same place as the C-Class sedans and estates, the GLC SUVs and GLC Coupes. Production is currently being organized in Beijing, at the Beijing Benz joint venture plant.
The first generation
It has been produced from 2018 to the present (as of 2021). The first EQC is not some kind of a GLC SUV, which was simply switched to the battery. Yes, both models share the same platform with a wheelbase of 2,873 mm and the same suspension layout. But the electric vehicle has its own body, which has not only a dynamic design, but also an increased length of 4,762 mm (for comparison, the Mercedes GLC is 4,656 mm long). The electric vehicle is 1,884 mm wide and 1,623 mm high. The difference with the GLC does not exceed 15 mm. The model features a signature radiator grille and 19-21-inch wheels. The AMG Line package includes other bumpers, wheels and a radiator grille. The rear trunk holds 500 liters. However, the vehicle comes without a front trunk (unlike the Tesla and Jaguar), because the entire engine compartment is occupied by the control electronics unit. At the same time, the new EQC is capable of towing a trailer weighing up to 1,800 kg.
Interior and equipment
The interior of the 2019/2020 Mercedes EQC is inspired by other modern models of the German brand and is well-equipped even in the entry-level version. The front panel features a flat dashboard without a screen that combines two 10.25-inch displays: one for the VIs and the other for the new generation MBUX media voice control system. Everything is adapted to electromobility. Thus, the virtual dashboard tachometer has been replaced by a power reserve indicator, and the navigator builds routes taking into account the available charging points. The steering wheel, buttons, levers and branded seat control panels located on the doors are all very familiar to Mercedes owners. The list of traditional driving modes includes Comfort, Eco and Sport, as well as a new Max Range, in which the electronics minimize energy consumption in order to increase the drive range. The efficiency of regenerative braking can also be varied (five modes are provided). The new Mercedes EQC remains a Mercedes at its best.
The new SUV that has switched to electricity but still remains a true safe, comfortable and functional Mercedes.
The additional options comprise AMG exterior and interior packages, a set of Autonomous assistants (including an automatic braking system with the crossroad monitoring function and adaptive cruise control). There are also several special ‘electromobile’ maintenance packages, such as a six-year service package or an extended warranty. And if you are suddenly going to travel to regions with undeveloped electrical infrastructure, you will be offered the Holiday Mobility package, which allows you to rent any Mercedes model with an internal combustion engine for such purposes. You can also order a special version of the EQC Edition 1886, which has an expanded set of options.
Modifications
The new 2020/2021 Mercedes EQC is only available in the EQC AT 408 all-wheel drive modification, which is equipped with two electric motors, one on each axle, with a total output of 408 hp and 760 Nm. The battery capacity is 80 kW/h. The drive range reaches 412 km. The declared consumption is 20.8 kWh per kilometer. The charger is liquid-cooled and has a power of 7.4 kW. It will take you 80 minutes to fully charge your vehicle at a station, and the fast-charging station will recharge your vehicle to 80% in about 40 minutes. The maximum speed is electronically limited to 180 km/h. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h occurs in 5.1 seconds. For example, a Jaguar I-Pace with a similar efficiency of electric motors accelerates in 4.8 seconds (but it is almost 300 kg lighter than a Mercedes).
