2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE 500 4Matic
Just a few months after the launch of the EQS, Mercedes-EQ is already presenting the next model based on the electric architecture developed specifically for electric vehicles, the new EQE. The sporty business saloon offers all the essential functions of the EQS in a slightly more compact format. At market launch, the model range initially comprises two variants: the EQE 350 (power consumption acc. to WLTP: 19.3-15.7 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions: 0 g/km)[1] with 215 kW, as well as another model. Performance variants with around 500 kW are being planned. Production of the EQE takes place at two locations of the Mercedes-Benz Cars global production network: at the German Mercedes-Benz plant in Bremen for the global market and at the German-Chinese joint venture BBAC in Beijing for the local market.
Compared to the luxury liner EQS, the EQE is even more streamlined, with a slightly shorter wheelbase, shorter overhangs and more recessed flanks – it carries the concept of the business saloon into the future. Sensual Purity is reflected in generously modelled surfaces, reduced joints and seamless transitions (seamless design). The overhangs and the front end are kept short, the rear provides the dynamic accent with a sharp rear spoiler. Flush with the outer edge of the body, the 19- to 21-inch wheels, together with a pronounced muscular shoulder section, give the EQE an athletic character.
In the outer dimensions (length/width/height: 4946/1961/1512 millimetres), the EQE is comparable to the CLS. Like the latter, it has a fixed rear window and a boot lid. The interior dimensions even clearly exceed those of today’s E-Class (213 model series), e.g. the shoulder room in the front (plus 27 mm) or the interior length (plus 80 mm).
Unconventional interior design and high operating convenience
With the optionally available MBUX Hyperscreen, the entire instrument panel is a single, ultimate widescreen. This determines the aesthetics of the entire cockpit and interior. The high-resolution screens merge seemingly seamlessly under the shared glass cover. The graphic appearance of their MBUX content is perfectly coordinated. The MBUX Hyperscreen is integrated into the instrument panel in minimalist fashion.
The 12.3-inch OLED display for the front passenger gives them their own display and control area. In Europe, the passenger is allowed to watch dynamic content such as videos, TV or internet even when on the move. This is because Mercedes-EQ uses an intelligent, camera-based blocking logic: if the camera detects that the driver is looking at the front passenger display, this is automatically dimmed for certain content.
The vent band spans across the entire width at the top and is very slim at the same time. These extreme proportions, together with the glass wave of the MBUX Hyperscreen, create the avant-garde architecture of the cockpit. The outer nozzles feature a turbine design. They play on the theme hyperanalogue through the contrast between high-tech precision mechanics and digital, glass display world.
The latest MBUX generation, recently introduced in the EQS, is also on board the EQE. With adaptive software, the control and display concept completely adapts to its user and makes personalised suggestions for numerous infotainment, comfort and vehicle functions. With the zero-layer design, the user does not have to scroll through submenus or give voice commands. The most important applications are offered situationally and contextually on the top level in the field of view. In this way the EQE driver is relieved of certain operating steps.
Efficient drive system
The EQE 350 with 215 kW plus a second model will be launched first. Further versions will follow. All EQE models have an electric drivetrain (eATS) on the rear axle. The later versions with 4MATIC are also equipped with an eATS at the front axle. The electric motors are permanently excited synchronous motors (PSM). With the PSM, the rotor of the AC motor is fitted with permanent magnets and therefore does not need to be supplied with power. The advantages of this design include high power density, high efficiency and high power constancy. The motor on the rear axle is particularly powerful due to its six-phase design: it has two windings with three phases each.
In the EQE, the lithium-ion battery consists of ten modules and has a usable energy content of 90 kWh. The innovative battery management software, developed in-house, allows updates over the air (OTA). In this way, the energy management of the EQE remains up-to-date throughout the life cycle.
In the case of the battery, a major step has been achieved in terms of the sustainability of the cell chemistry: the optimised active material consists of nickel, cobalt and manganese in a ratio of 8:1:1. This reduces the cobalt content to less than ten percent. The continuous optimisation of recyclability is part of Mercedes-Benz’s holistic battery strategy.
Consistently high performance and multiple accelerations without a drop in power characterise the EQE’s drive philosophy. This includes a sophisticated thermal concept and several variants of energy recovery by means of recuperation. in this process, the high-voltage battery is charged by converting the mechanical rotary motion into electrical energy during overrun or braking mode. The driver can manually select the deceleration in three stages (D+, D, D-) as well as the gliding function via shift paddles behind the steering wheel. Also available: DAuto.
ECO Assist also offers situation-optimised recuperation – deceleration is so strong or weak that it ultimately results in the most efficient driving style. If possible, recuperative deceleration is also used for vehicles detected ahead. This even occurs until they come to a standstill, for example at traffic lights. The driver does not need to press the brake pedal for this – literally one-pedal driving.
Navigation with Electric Intelligence plans the fastest and most convenient route, including charging stops, based on numerous factors and reacts dynamically to traffic jams or a change in driving style, for example. This includes a visualisation in the MBUX infotainment system as to whether the available battery capacity is sufficient to return to the starting point without charging.
High noise and vibration comfort, Sound Experiences as a contrast
As a saloon with a boot lid, the EQE’s concept is well equipped to offer a high level of NVH comfort Noise, Vibration, Harshness) into account. Numerous measures contribute to this. In the electric drivetrains (eATS), the magnets are arranged inside the rotors in an NVH-optimised way (known as ‘sheet metal cut’). In addition, the eATS have a special foam mat all around as an NVH cover. The inverter cover is a sandwich construction. The eATS are double-decoupled from the body via elastomeric bearings:
Highly effective spring/mass components provide continuous sound insulation from the crossmember under the windscreen to the floor of the boot. Acoustic foams are inserted into many carriers during body-in-white construction.
If desired, the ride in the EQE nevertheless becomes an acoustic experience: If the Burmester® surround sound system is on board, the EQE has the two soundscapes: Silver Waves and Vivid Flux. Silver Waves is a sensuous and clean sound. Aimed at EV enthusiasts, Vivid Flux is crystalline, synthetic yet humanly warm. They can be selected or switched off as sound experiences on the central display. The additional soundscape Roaring Pulse can be activated as an over-the-air update. This sound experience is reminiscent of powerful machines, and is sonorous and extroverted.
Air suspension and rear-axle steering as options
The suspension of the new EQE, with four-link front suspension and multilink rear suspension, is closely related in design to the new S-Class. As an option, the EQE is available with AIRMATIC air suspension with ADS+ adaptive damping system. With rear-axle steering (optional extra), the EQE feels as manoeuvrable as a compact car in the city. The steering angle at the rear axle is up to ten degrees. The turning circle is reduced from 12.5 to 10.7 metres with rear-axle steering.
New vehicle functions can be activated via over-the-air technology (OTA). Available from launch: the additional sound experience “Roaring Pulse”, two special driving modes for young drivers and service personnel, small games, the highlight mode as well as DIGITAL LIGHT with projection function and DIGITAL LIGHT individualisation. In Highlight mode the vehicle presents itself and its equipment highlights – this is activated by the “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant. In addition to the light animation “Digital Rain”, DIGITAL LIGHT individualisation includes other coming-home/leaving animations such as “Brand World”. The OTA functions are available in the Mercedes me Store, and the range will be successively expanded.
Convenient charging in a large charging network
With the new Mercedes me Charge Plug & Charge function, the EQE can be charged even more conveniently at Plug & Charge-enabled public charging points: when the charging cable is plugged in, the charging process starts automatically; no further authentication by the customer is required. The vehicle and the charging station communicate directly via the charging cable.
What’s more, Mercedes me Charge customers continue to benefit from the integrated payment function with automatic payment. The customer chooses the preferred payment method only once. Every charging process is then automatically debited – including abroad. The individual charging processes are clearly listed in a monthly invoice.
Mercedes me Charge is one of the largest charging networks worldwide: it currently has more than 530,000 AC and DC charging points in 31 countries, including over 200,000 in Europe. 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.
High level of passive and active safety
The principles of Integral Safety, in particular accident safety, apply regardless of the platform. Like all other Mercedes-Benz models, the EQE therefore has a rigid passenger cell, special deformation zones and modern restraint systems with PRE-SAFE®.
The fact that the EQE is based on an all-electric architecture also opened up new design possibilities for its safety concept. It meant, for example, that a favourable location could be chosen for the installation of the battery, in a crash-protected area in the underbody. And because there is no large crankcase on board, the behaviour in a frontal crash could be modelled even better. In addition to the standard crash tests, the car’s performance in various additional load situations was verified and extensive component tests carried out at the Vehicle Safety Technology Centre (TFS).
The latest generation of driving assistance systems includes numerous driver support functions. One new function is the additional microsleep warning from ATTENTION ASSIST (in conjunction with MBUX Hyperscreen). It analyses the driver’s eyelid movements using a camera in the driver display. The assistance display within the driver’s display shows the operation of the driving assistance systems in a comprehensible full-screen view.
Main Points At A Glance
The business saloon EQE is the second model to be based on the premium-class electric architecture (EVA2), following the luxury EQS saloon. The EQE will have its world premiere at the IAA show (September/Munich). The staggered global launch will take place in mid-2022. Production will be in Bremen for the world market and in Beijing for the Chinese market.
Business avant-garde with progressive luxury
The EQE features a sporty ‘purpose design’ with all the characteristic elements of Mercedes-EQ, one-bow lines and cab-forward design. Sensual Purity is reflected in generously modelled surfaces, reduced joints and seamless transitions (seamless design). The overhangs and the front end are kept short, the rear provides the dynamic accent with a sharp rear spoiler. Flush with the outer edge of the body, the 19- to 21-inch wheels, together with a pronounced muscular shoulder section, give the EQE an athletic character.
Plenty of space for passengers
The EQE is more compact than the EQS and has a wheelbase that is 90 millimetres shorter, at 3120 millimetres. In terms of external dimensions, it is comparable to the CLS. Like the latter, it has no tailgate but a fixed rear window and a boot lid. The interior dimensions even clearly exceed those of today’s E-Class (213 model series), e.g. the shoulder room in the front (plus 27 mm) or the interior length (plus 80 mm). The seating position is higher/more confident (+ 65 mm). The boot capacity is 430 litres. The interior design and equipment are clearly based on the EQS, with MBUX Hyperscreen, automatic comfort doors (front) and rear-axle steering, for example, available as optional extras. In terms of noise and vibration comfort (NVH), the EQE is among the best in class.
Range of up to 660 kilometres
The battery has a usable energy content of 90 kWh, and the range of up to 660 km1 according to WLTP is absolutely suitable for touring. The model range will include two variants at market launch: den EQE 350 (power consumption acc. to WLTP: 19.3-15.7 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions: 0 g/km)1 with 215 kW, as well as a second model. Performance variants with around 500 kW are being planned.
Always up to date
Like the EQS, the EQE offers the possibility to activate completely new vehicle functions via over-the-air updates (OTA) in many areas. Available from launch: the additional sound experience “Roaring Pulse”, two special driving modes for young drivers and service personnel, mini-games, the Highlight mode and DIGITAL LIGHT with projection function and DIGITAL LIGHT individualisation. In Highlight mode the vehicle presents itself and its equipment highlights – this is activated by the “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant. In addition to the light animation “Digital Rain”, DIGITAL LIGHT individualisation includes other coming-home/leaving animations such as “Brand World”. This means that after purchase and the original new car configuration, some of the EQE’s equipment can be adapted according to personal preferences.
Navigation with Electric Intelligence
Navigation with Electric Intelligence plans the fastest and most convenient route, including charging stops, based on numerous factors and reacts dynamically to traffic jams or a change in driving style, for example. This includes a visualisation in the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system as to whether the available battery capacity is sufficient to return to the starting point without charging. Charging stations along the route that have been added manually are given preference in the route calculation. Proposed charging stations can be excluded. The estimated charging costs per charging stop are calculated.
Clean air in the interior
With ENERGIZING AIR CONTROL Plus, Mercedes-Benz thinks holistically about air quality in the EQE. The system is based on filtration, sensors, a display concept and air conditioning. The HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter has a very high filtration level to trap fine particles, micro-particles, pollen and other substances entering with the outside air. The activated charcoal coating reduces sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides and odours in the interior. The interior air filter of this optional feature received “OFI CERT” ZG 250-1 certification in 2021 from the Austrian Research and Testing Institute (OFI) with respect to viruses and bacteria. Using pre-entry climate control, it is also possible to clean the interior air before getting into the vehicle. The fine-particle values outside and inside the vehicle are also displayed in the climate line. If the quality of the outside air is low, the system can also recommend closing the side windows or sunroof, as well as automatically switching to recirculation mode.
Green electricity as standard with Mercedes me Charge
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 are able to charge at over 530,000 public charging stations around the world, more than 200,000 of them in Europe. With the new Mercedes me Charge Plug & Charge function, the EQE can be charged even more conveniently at Plug & Charge-enabled public charging points: inserting the charging cable automatically starts the charging process. No further authentication by the customer is required.
MBUX Hyperscreen on request
The MBUX Hyperscreen is the absolute highlight in the interior (optional extra). This large, curved screen unit sweeps almost from A-pillar to A-pillar. Three screens sit under a glass cover and appear to merge into one. The 12.3-inch OLED display for the front passenger gives them their own display and control area. In Europe, the front seat passenger is also able to watch dynamic content while on the move. This is because Mercedes-EQ uses an intelligent, camera-based blocking logic: if the camera detects that the driver is looking at the front passenger display, this is automatically dimmed for certain content.
MBUX maintains its lead
With adaptive software, MBUX adapts completely to its user and makes personalised suggestions for numerous infotainment, comfort and vehicle functions. With what is known as the zero layer, the most important applications are always offered on the top level within the field of vision, according to situation and context.
Emotive display concept
The EQE follows the EQS visually and in terms of display. The dominant blue colour scheme with a highlight in orange is immediately recognisable as “electric world”. The Discreet mode provides an emotive experience. The up to three display surfaces transform into a common colour world in combination with the ambient lighting. In addition, the content in this mode is reduced.
Driving assistance systems support in many driving situations
The latest generation of driving assistance systems includes numerous driver support functions. One new function is the additional microsleep warning from ATTENTION ASSIST (in conjunction with MBUX Hyperscreen). It analyses the driver’s eyelid movements using a camera in the driver display. The assistance display within the driver’s display shows the operation of the driving assistance systems in a comprehensible full-screen view.
(Mercedes-Benz Press Release)
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