Mercedes-Benz EQA: India Launch Imminent, Unveiling Cutting-Edge Electric SUV
Mercedes-Benz is launching its most affordable electric SUV, the EQA, in India on July 8th. This will be the German automaker’s fourth electric vehicle (EV) in the Indian market, following the EQB, EQE, and EQS models.
Details about the battery and other specifications for the India-specific EQA are yet to be revealed by Mercedes. However, internationally, the EQA comes in four variants with two battery options. The most extensive range variant offers up to 560km on a single charge (WLTP).
The EQA is expected to be priced slightly lower than the EQB, which currently starts at Rs 77.75 lakh. This new entry-level electric SUV from Mercedes will compete with the Volvo XC40 Recharge and the BMW iX1.
While the official details for the India-specific Mercedes-Benz EQA are still under wraps, here’s what we can glean based on international information and informed speculation:
- Variants: Globally, the EQA comes in four trims: EQA 250, EQA 250+, EQA 300 4Matic, and EQA 350 4Matic. The 250+ likely won’t be offered in India due to its larger battery.
- Battery: There’s a chance of two battery options:
- A 66.5kWh battery offering a maximum range of around 528km (WLTP).
- A possibility of a smaller battery in the base variant, potentially impacting range.
- Performance: Specific power and torque figures are unknown, but internationally, the EQA ranges from 190hp to 292hp.
- Competition: The EQA will take on the Volvo XC40 Recharge and the BMW iX1 in the luxury electric SUV segment.
- Price: Expect a starting price slightly below Rs 77.75 lakh, the current price of the EQB.
- Expect a high-tech cabin similar to the GLA with a digital instrument cluster and a large touchscreen infotainment system featuring Mercedes’ latest MBUX interface.
- Driver Assistance: Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking are likely standard or optional.
- Interior Space: While the exact dimensions are unknown, the EQA should offer comfortable seating for five and decent cargo space for a compact SUV.
International Variants – A Glimpse into Possibilities:
- Performance: Though power figures are unconfirmed, the international EQA offers variants ranging from 190hp (EQA 250) to 292hp (EQA 350 4Matic). All-wheel drive might be offered in the top-spec variant, similar to the 300 and 350 trims globally.
- Charging: Internationally, the EQA supports DC fast charging, allowing you to top up the battery quickly at compatible charging stations. We can expect the same for the Indian version.
Also read : Ferrari ignites the electric era with its first EV test drive!
Things to Consider:
- Government Regulations: Indian government regulations and incentives for electric vehicles might influence the final specifications and pricing of the EQA.
- Local Production: If Mercedes decides to locally assemble the EQA in India, it could potentially affect the price positively.