Mercedes-Benz seems to be putting all its energy into enlivening the electric car landscape. In retrospect, they opened 2021 by presenting the EQA tiny crossover. Continuing from there, the EQS – the flagship sedan based on a special platform – launched recently. Finally, the EQB officially debuted at Auto Shanghai as an electric version of the premium compact family SUV.
Yes, the EQB is a direct translation of the GLB. Just like the birth process of EQC and EQA which became the electrical embodiment of GLC and GLA. His position fills the realm of entry level to harmonize the blood relationship between GLB and GLA. This latest model will certainly be a bigger option and be able to accommodate more passengers. In China, the standard is provided with three rows of stools.
The exterior design is not much different from the conventional B-Class SUV. Having a boxy body like a baby GLS only splashes the identity of the EQ family on the front and back. A new face without a lot of intake cavities – it does not necessarily help improve aerodynamics and efficiency. It embraces a Siamese cat face arrangement with a closed black grille panel that gently connects a pair of headlights.
Not just a style, this change enhances the aerodynamics of the EQB. The air resistance coefficient drops from Cd 0.32 to 0.28. It can be described as being sharper and smoother when it penetrates the air. All of this can be achieved thanks to the closed air conditioning system at the top, aerodynamic apron at the front and rear, and the smoothness of the under area which is almost completely closed. In addition, the rim design and rear wheel spoiler have been adjusted accordingly.
The identity in the form of a transverse light from side to side is certainly carried away. The fiber-optic strip on the front connects the DRL from the LED headlamp. It sure looks different at night. More noticeably at the stern. Playing the graphic of the connecting LED light tube behind the longitudinal lamp mica. Aligning this arrangement, the number plate was moved to the bumper area.
The feel of the cabin is not too different from the conventional model. It exudes tough character through tubular elements in aluminum finish such as on the door handles, center console and on the dashboard. The appearance of sophistication is also similar. Installed two widescreen integrated in one frame like a tablet containing MBUX technology.
Even so, the capabilities in it have been adjusted for an EV. The standard navigation system is installed including the Electric Intelligence function. Able to calculate the fastest route to a destination taking into account the power and duration of recharging. Also the Navigation with Electric Intelligence system ensures optimal battery temperature before stopping to recharge.
Driving assistant affairs need not be asked again. Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Brake Assist are standard components. Help minimize the risk of an accident or the impact of an accident with autonomous braking. It can also detect stopped cars and pedestrians at low speed. The optional Driving Assistance Package can add to its capabilities.
The manufacturer with the Three Pointed Star logo is still somewhat closed about the EQB specification data. What is clear, the Chinese market gets the highest variant of the AMG Line with a power of 288 hp. Meanwhile, later in Europe there will be various front-wheel drive variants or AWD (All-Wheel Drive) options. The level of power is also confirmed to vary with some being able to throw an output of more than 268 hp.
There are also not explained the number and types of variants. Only one model is known to exist in Europe ; the EQB 350 4Matic. Claimed to be able to cover a distance of 419 km based on the WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicle Test Procedure) calculation cycle. In addition, the European market will also receive batteries starting at 66.5 kWh. Later it is said that there are additional variants with further mileage.
EQB marketing will take place in China and Europe soon this year. From there it will take the floor in the US in 2022. A local Chinese version will be born from the Beijing Benz Automotive Co., Ltd facility in Beijing, China. Meanwhile, a global model was born from the Kecskemét factory, Hungary and slid at the end of the year.
