Mercedes is accelerating its all-electric push in the van and MPV sectors, and this is its latest addition: the EQT. It’ll go on sale for around €49,000 (approximately £42,000) in the coming weeks, and next year, a Marco Polo camper van version will arrive in showrooms.
The EQT is a derivative of the combustion-engined T-Class five-seat MPV, which uses Renault Kangoo underpinnings. Its overall design is almost identical to that of its ICE counterpart, albeit with the firm’s EQ design language applied to the front end in the form of a gloss black grille panel. This integrates with a set of optional LED headlights, while 16-inch alloys are standard, with 17-inch items available for extra outlay.
It also features the same sliding rear doors and interior architecture, with a folding three-seat bench in the second row. The base-spec EQT is trimmed in black fabric upholstery with certain elements finished in man-made synthetic leather, while a long wheelbase version – set to arrive later in 2023 – will offer additional cabin space.
From launch, the MPV offers 120bhp and 245Nm from a front-mounted electric motor, powered by a 45kWh battery mounted within the floor. Official range stands at 175 miles, and thanks to 80kW DC charging capability, the EQT can replenish its cells from 10-80 per cent in 38 minutes. There’s an onboard 22kW AC charger, too.
The EQT’s tech suite is built around Mercedes’ MBUX software, albeit with a smaller seven-inch touchscreen to those found in its mainstream models. A pair of analogue dials display speed and energy usage and these are split by a 5.5-inch instrument binnacle display. A “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant is available at extra cost, but every EQT receives Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and a DAB radio. Hill start assist, a driver fatigue monitor and lane keep assist are also included.
Buyers can equip their EQT with numerous option bundles, including Driver Assistance and Navigation packages, alongside three core trim levels. These begin with Advanced Plus, which includes a reversing camera, rear parking sensors, ambient lighting and a leather steering wheel. Premium models add a parking assist system, LED headlights, wireless charging and more comprehensive driver assists.
Premium Plus brings the most standard equipment, such as keyless go, exterior chrome trim and bigger wheels, alongside a Navigation Plus package.
Mercedes EQT Marco Polo Concept
Alongside the EQT, Mercedes has also pulled the covers off a Marco Polo campervan version, which will arrive in the second half of 2023. Taking the long-wheelbase variant as a base, the concept adds a forward-hinged pop up roof, allowing passengers to stand in the rear of the cabin. On the show car, a solar panel has been integrated into the roof for additional power. There’s also a side awning and space for a roof bed, along with a further sleeping area in the main cabin.
Mercedes has fitted a 16-litre fridge and washing facilities behind the driver’s seat, too, and numerous drawers and storage areas have been designed to cater for camping trips. To add to the Marco Polo’s outdoor credentials, there’s an induction hob, gas cooker and an electrically adjustable folding table inside.
The concept has been engineered to be versatile beyond its use as a camper, and Mercedes claims that the interior furniture can be removed by two people in less than five minutes, opening up the space for everyday use.
Standard EQT owners can add elements of the full-blown camper by way of the optional Marco Polo module, which fits into the load bay of the short wheelbase model. It provides a folding bed and optional kitchen facilities, along with window blinds and an insect protection sheet.
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