Mercedes EQE is a luxury electric car with a range to beat Tesla

Mercedes EQE is a luxury electric car with a range to beat Tesla

We already knew the Mercedes EQE was coming, but Mercedes has revealed what drivers can expect when this all-electric sedan arrives next year.

Pricing is still a complete unknown, but with a range of about 410 miles, the Mercedes EQE may be the car to buy if you want to drive long distances in luxury.

The Mercedes EQE is essentially an electric E-Class, but according to Mercedes, it manages to offer more storage space than ever before. Those familiar with the Mercedes EQS, which was launched earlier this year, may see the EQE as a slightly smaller version. Albeit with a more "athletic character" that prioritizes aerodynamics, an important feature for a long-range electric vehicle.

Inside is a 90 kWh battery with a range of up to 410 miles, according to Mercedes. This is obviously less than the 478 miles available in the EQS. However, it is slightly more than the 405 miles of the long-range Tesla Model S, which has the longest range of any Tesla vehicle currently on the market.

This range is extended by Mercedes' efforts to make the EQE an aerodynamic beast with a "very good" rating for its drag coefficient. While the numbers are unknown, the smooth underbody, panel gap sealing, and closed grille all help to reduce drag and glide through the air. An "aero wheel" is also available, with at least one set featuring a completely closed surface.

Performance details have yet to be revealed, but Mercedes promises that the motor will offer "high power density, high efficiency, and high power stability."

The EQE 350 will have a maximum output of 288 bhp and maximum torque of 319 lb ft. A second variant will be available at launch, but figures on performance are being withheld.

As for charging, a top speed of 170 kW is expected, and Mercedes says the EQE can recover 155 miles of range in just 15 minutes. Mercedes also plans to send updates to the car to extend battery life and help the car determine optimal heating and cooling cycles to optimize performance.

For the environmentally conscious, Mercedes promises that the EQE will be the first Mercedes made from 100% recycled steel. Mercedes also plans to reuse old batteries from the EQE and use them in an energy storage facility before they are recycled.

Mercedes has not skimped on the interior either, and the main focus seems to be on the "HyperScreen" infotainment system. HyperScreen features a 16.1-inch-wide, high-resolution screen positioned across the dashboard. Mercedes describes the system as "zero-layer" access, meaning there is no need to switch between multiple menus while driving.

Front seat passengers also have a 12.3-inch display that automatically dims when "dynamic content" is present to avoid distracting the driver.

Hyperscreen also features mini-games, a "roaring pulse" sound mode that plays a "loud combustion engine" soundtrack for the driver, special modes for young drivers and technicians, and updated headlight technology. Naturally, the entire system can receive updates wirelessly.

One of the most important things Mercedes has worked on, however, is soundproofing, with foam coatings and improved seals helping to reduce external noise. This is because there is no roar of the combustion engine to drown out noise from the wind, road, and other vehicles. It also has a hatch-style trunk rather than the closed design of a typical sedan.

The Mercedes EQE is expected to arrive in mid-2022, but pricing details are still unknown at this time. More details will be revealed as the launch date approaches.

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