The Mercedes Benz EQE and the Tesla Model Y are both SUV-style vehicles. Now, these days the term ‘sport utility vehicle’ seems to cover a huge variety of cars, not many of which buyers would use as a utility vehicle. Suffice to say that the term seems now to refer to a styling ethos which has spread across the globe, eclipsing the term saloon.
Never mind; we should just accept that for the most part these SUV’s are excellent family and business transport and often very capable. Now they are electric too. Lately, the electric car market has burgeoned with some classy premium EV’s and two of the most competent and well rounded are the aforementioned EQE and Model Y that we’re featuring here.
The EQE
On The Outside
The family / business friendly EQE is the second model to be based on the German brand’s premium-class electric architecture, following the luxury EQS saloon, and is available to buy now. Thanks to modern production methods, the cab-forward design of this big EV features generously modelled surfaces, reduced joints and seamless transitions. 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 shoulder section, give the EQE a sporting character.
On The Inside
There’s plenty of space for passengers. More compact than the bigger EQS, the EQE is is comparable in interior size to the CLS saloon. Like the latter, it has no tailgate but a fixed rear window and a boot lid. The boot capacity is 430 litres, expandable by dropping the rear seats as usual. The interior design and equipment are well specified as standard and clearly based on the EQS. However, the now familiar MBUX Hyperscreen, automatic comfort doors (at the front) and rear-axle steering, for example, are all available as optional extras. In terms of noise and vibration comfort, the EQE is among the best in class.
The optional MBUX Hyperscreen is the absolute highlight of the interior where fitted. 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.
On board 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.
The car’s features are numerous but include, a 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 flow. 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. Automotive technology is moving fast these days. Makes you wonder how far they can go.
The Power
With a range of up to 660 kilometres (410 miles. Manufacturer’s figure), it would seem that this prestige electric car is looking longer-range friendly. The battery, we learn, has a usable energy content of 90 kWh, and the range makes the car suitable for touring.
The EQE offers the possibility to activate completely new vehicle functions via over-the-air updates (OTA) in many regions. This means that after purchase and the original new car configuration, some of the EQE's equipment can subsequently be adapted according to personal or work preferences.
Green electricity is available as standard through the Mercedes ‘Me Charge’ (where available) service and the brand guarantees that energy from renewable energy sources is fed into the grid for charging current sourced via their system.
The Tesla Model Y
The unpredictable boss of the Tesla brand brought electric cars to the fore thanks to his automotive vision. After a shaky start the brand is now fully established and an increasingly familiar sight on the world’s roads.
On The Outside
Tesla cars are unmistakable. The lack of any semblance of a front grille marks them out as electric cars. Think of the Model Y as a Model 3 but adapted to fulfil the ‘Utility’ part of the SUV label. It is roomier and more practical than its sibling saloon, augmented by a handy hatchback which gives entry to a substantial boot space. The design is minimalist, implying the same principle for the interior.
The Model Y range launched with a choice of two dual-motor all-wheel drive trims; the entry-level Long Range and the range-topping Performance. Two ultra-responsive, independent electric motors that digitally control torque to the front and rear wheels deliver better handling, traction and stability control. There is also a one-motor entry-level version too. Model Y is capable in rain, snow, mud and off-road and safety technology is to the fore with a Five Star rating.
On The Inside
Keyless entry features and the car will prepare itself as the keyholder approaches. There’s plenty of space inside the Model Y thanks to a minimalist cabin layout with an airy feel, noted for the absolutely huge central screen. The only physical controls for the driver are the seat adjustment (which is ample, making getting comfortable easy for all sizes of driver and passenger), door handles, the steering wheel with two rotary switches and the usual column stalks. For everything else, see that screen: You can hardly miss it.
The Power
The dual-motor Model Y promises over 300 miles of range, even on the Performance version, although this will of course depend upon how the car is driven. That should take of care of most of the average owner’s needs without public charging. Tesla do though offer their own dedicated charging stations for a fast top up. The locations are available via the touchscreen so route planning for a long trip should be plain sailing depending upon region.
Tesla cars are well known for their energy efficiency; a real selling point. Depending on the model selected, the Model Y features either a 57.5kWh or 75kWh battery. There’s also not one but three levels of brake energy recuperation, which can help maintain charge when on the road. Like most EV’s, the Model Y is quick in a straight line, responding instantly to driver input. It’s easy to drive too, having light steering in traffic that weights up as speed increases.
It’s Up To You
Sorry to end this up in the air without a positive conclusion. MHH International are well known for their established and comprehensive service allowing customers to import their choice of electric or fossil-fuel cars from the UK to destinations like Kenya and New Zealand. What we cannot do is choose your car for you. Here we have two different brands with very different outlooks, but the choice of which of these grown-up electric vehicles will suit individuals best remains difficult. The key is obviously to choose the car that is the best fit for your EV needs.
