mercedes-benz EQE SUV: an all-electric test-drive in portugal

FIRST DRIVE OF NEW EQE SUV

Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV, the fourth model out of the exclusive all-electric platform, takes across Portugal’s coastal routes for the first time. designboom embarks on a two-day road trip testing the electric vehicle along Lisbon’s scenic roads and surfing capital Ericeira’s seaside trails. Following the two EQS and EQE Saloons as well as the EQC (see designboom’s review here), the new model combines function and aesthetics as aerodynamics are fine-tuned to prevent energy loss in a ‘purpose design’. Being one of the most spacious representatives of its class, the sporty SUV allows the driver and passengers to indulge in a unique driving experience of luxury mobility.

all images courtesy of Mercedes-Benz

electric vehicle achieves ranges of over 590 kilometers

Mercedes-Benz‘ modular drive concept enables the EQE SUV to reach over 590 km on a single charge, according to WLTP. The lithium-ion battery consists of ten modules. Located above the rear axle of the EQE SUV, the charging system can be used to replenish the battery from the public mains. High charging currents can be maintained for a long time through temperature and charging management. The electric model offers a wide range of maximum total outputs from 180 kW to 300 kW and 565 Nm to 858 Nm of torque, with the numbers fluctuating according to the selected models.

the sculpted body of the new model presents functional external indents contributing to the aerodynamics

EQE SUV presents clever driving assistance systems

The vehicle incorporates an extensive range of driving assistance systems allowing safe trips along the off-road paths of Ericeira and the busy streets of Lisbon. The smart equipment includes tools such as Attention Assist, Active Brake Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Parking Package with Reversing Camera, and Speed Limit Assist. The electric intelligence navigation system makes up suggested routes and plans charging stops along the trip according to lost energy. The program calculates estimated charging costs, while also reacting dynamically to traffic jams and changes in driving style or terrain to conserve power and extend the range.

the external design combines functionality and aesthetics retaining a robust and sporty character

exterior design reveals a sleek sporty body

The proportions and external design of the new electric model combine functionality and aesthetics retaining a robust and sporty character. The vehicle’s appearance holds on to the sleek aerodynamic look, while the overhangs and the front-end assembly have been kept compact. Consistent with the new generation of Mercedes-EQ vehicles, the front of the EQE SUV presents a black panel unit with the signature three-dimensional star pattern. The aerodynamic shape of the car is topped by the flat windscreen, the sweeping roof line, the flush-fitting door handles, and the external indents of the sculpted body, upgrading the model in comparison to the rest of the electric family. The platform offers five elegant paint choices, with velvet brown metallic and obsidian black metallic standing out.

EQE SUV takes over Ericeira’s seaside trails on an all-electric test drive

luxurious color scheme in warm and cool tones

Highly-crafted classic materials adorn the interior of the vehicle, harmonically combined with technical and metallic features. Flowing leather surfaces coat the seat covers and door panels, as well as the center console, presenting delicate seam dressings. The dynamic forms of the interior are accentuated by the ambient thin LED ribbons tracing the volumes. The form-following luxury seats adopt customized massage and heating layouts for optimal comfort. The sculptural design of the interior is emphasized through the unique color pattern that integrates both warm and cool tones. The blue and orange scheme of the graphic display contrasts the five coordinated color combinations in neutral and subtle tones.

the electric intelligence system reacts to changes in elevation or terrain to conserve power and extend the range

immersive soundscapes flood the interior

Provided with numerous built-in applications, the system allows users to enjoy music and films without fear of security, as an intelligent, camera-based blocking logic recognizes if the driver is looking towards the front-passenger display and automatically dims the dynamic content. When it comes to audio, the model arranges 360° Dolby audio immersive soundscapes taking over the entire space of the interior. The holistic acoustic feedback can be switched to an optional interior driving sound that adjusts adaptively to the driving style.

the vehicle’s appearance retains its sleek aerodynamic features

impressive MBUX operating system gets updated

While the clever light belts through the interior of the vehicle serve as protective alarms turning red to prevent possible collisions, in regular state, they adopt a whole spectrum of ambient colors highlighting the smooth curves. One of the most impressive features of the new EQE SUV has to be the OLED Hyperscreen stretching through the entire span of the dash and creating a band over 141 centimeters wide. The adaptive software of the MBUX display and operating system controls three linked high-resolution screens that can operate in sync or separately on demand allowing both the driver and passenger to navigate through the wide selection of infotainment, comfort, and vehicle functions.