V-class without exhaust
The Mercedes EQV drives purely electrically.
Stuttgart electric cars do not necessarily have to be small city streakers like the Smart EQ Fortwo. It may also make sense to energize large-capacity sedans, for example, to use them as a shuttle vehicle of large hotel chains or as a ride-sharing taxi.
This is exactly the way Mercedes goes with the electric V-Class, in which six, seven or even eight-seater configurations are possible. Under the name EQV, it is expected to go on sale in the middle of next year. The Swabians would be the first to rely on electromobility in this segment. In March, Mercedes introduced the EQV as a concept car at the Geneva Motor Show.
The production version, it runs together with the normal V-Class models in the Spanish Vitoria off the line, deviates only in nuances. Once again, the developers placed a 150 kW / 204 hp electric motor under the hood. He drives exclusively the front wheels. Four-wheel drive does not exist.
The battery went back one step. Instead of 100 kWh in the study, the EQV now has an energy content of 90 kWh. The capacity should still be good for about 400 kilometers range. This would make the EQC an attractive alternative even for private users who want to travel longer distances or even go on vacation by van.
Of course, Mercedes knows that too, and ensures a stress-free shop throughout Europe. Over 300 different electricity providers with several thousand charging stations have been brought under one roof. The EQV driver can unlock the charging station with a single card or even directly from his smartphone. Also integrated are the power stations of Ionity. There will be 400 fast-loaders in Europe along the main highways by the end of 2020. On them, the battery can be filled in just 45 minutes from ten to 80 percent.
Connected driving
Of course, the electric V-Class is equipped with the latest connectivity and infotainment system.
The EQV has also been prepared for the domestic wallbox and donated to him an 11 kW on-board charger. AC can thus be charged three-phase. Of course, the electric V-Class is equipped with the most modern connectivity and infotainment system currently available on the market. It’s called MBUX and can be activated and operated via voice.
When the EQV is started, the comfort level is always engaged. In addition, he can choose “Eco” and “Sport”. Even when recuperation, there are several stages, activated by the shift paddles on the steering wheel. The strongest deceleration mode even allows so-called one-pedal driving. Here you almost never have to use the normal brake pedal. This protects the environment from particulate matter and the wallet from high service costs.
Speaking of cost: how silent the EQV will ultimately be, Mercedes is still persistently silent. Going out, however, that the price should be around 15,000 euros over the strongest diesel version. You would then be at a level of about 70,000 euros.
Enough strength
Once again, the developers placed a 150 kW / 204 hp electric motor under the hood.
Flexible when refueling
The EQV driver can unlock the charging station with a single card or even directly from his smartphone.