The EQC was the first in a growing line of Mercedes Benz electric vehicles (EV). It has proved popular as it conforms to the current sport utility vehicle (SUV) ethos and bearing a resemblance to the petrol-powered GLC model from the German manufacturer. The EQC will charge up to about 80% in under an hour and an overnight charge from a home-installed wall box will fill it, ready for a day’s use.
On The Outside
As mentioned the exterior follows the looks of the fossil-fuel GLC model although it is classed as a ‘crossover’ SUV by the brand. The boundaries of this distinction have been blurred over time but apparently this particular model is one such as the extended roofline and window layout, coupled with the low waistline and the coupé-like roof recess at the rear, visually position it between an SUV and an SUV coupé. So now you know.
One striking feature at the front is the large black-panel surface enclosing the headlamps and grille. The black panel is bordered at the top by an optical fibre as a visual link between the 'torch-like' daytime running lamps as a typical Mercedes-Benz feature. At night this creates an almost uninterrupted, horizontal light band. The inner housings and tubes of the standard multibeam LED headlamps are in high-gloss black.
On The Inside
There’s a typically Mercedes Benz high-quality interior inside the EQC which also pioneers, we learn, an avant-garde electro-look. Readers can see it in the image for a clearer idea of what this means. One example is the ribbed edge of the instrument panel, which resembles the cooling ribs of a hi-fi amplifier.
The instrument panel is designed as a driver-oriented cockpit. The MB wing profile is asymmetrical, with a “cut-out” in the driver area. This is where one of the visual highlights of the cockpit is located; a high-tech, high gloss cassette housing flat air vents with key-shaped, rosé-gold coloured louvres. The on-screen graphics are super-sharp and configurable tovary the looks of the digital dials while the ambient colours from the LED mood lighting can also be varied.
In the front, the seats offer excellent support with plenty of electrical adjustment so that driver and passenger can fine-tune seating or driving positions and, a useful touch for taller folk, there’s a manually extending cushion for those who prefer a longer seat base. In the back, two full-sized adults can sit comfortably with ample legroom.
The EQC is equipped with the latest generation of Mercedes-Benz driving assistance systems. In the Driving Assistance package are included functions such as predictive speed adjustment when approaching the end of a tailback: When a tailback is detected, Active Distance Assist ‘DISTRONIC’ reduces the speed to around 100 km/h as a precaution. In a tailback on the motorway, the lane guidance system keeps the vehicle off-centre to leave space for the emergency services. Climate, sounds and navigation are all handled via the MBUX multimedia system.
The EQC also meets the highest requirements to road safety systems and passive safety: In addition to the usual, extensive programme of crash tests, Mercedes-Benz applies further, particularly stringent, safety standards to the battery and all component parts carrying electrical current.
On The Road
Charging is standard fare with a capacity of 7.4 kW, making it suitable for AC charging at home or at public charging stations. Charging at a Mercedes-Benz wall box is up to three times faster than at a domestic power socket. It is faster still with DC charging – which is standard on the EQC. Range is around 250 miles (over 400Km), depending as ever on conditions. This is pretty much in line with other, similar vehicles. Energy from braking is harvested which helps in a small way with power consumption.
Masses of torque (765Nm!) means that this car can crack on when the occasion demands. Electric power means instant acceleration although hustling through bends will mean the overall weight will be noticeable. Smooth and silky driving is rewarded.
Model Choice
Four trim lines with varying specifications and options (like the ‘Driving Assistance Package Plus’) are available: Sport, AMG Line, AMG Line Premium and AMG Line Premium Plus. There are also two special editions: Edition 1 and Edition 1886.
EQC Sport models come as standard with Active Parking Assist with a reversing camera; Blind Spot Assist; Mirror package; Keyless-Go Comfort package; Multibeam LED Headlights; Seat Comfort package with electro-pneumatic four-way lumbar support for front seats; heated front seats; 19-inch five-twin-spoke alloy wheels; 10.25-inch touchscreen media display and instrument cluster; and ambient lighting with a choice of 64 colours (count them all!). Depending on the model, there’s also an electric, sliding sunroof and a Burmester sound system on offer. Choose the model that suits your needs.
The EQC is one of the first, full package EVs and the Mercedes Benz EQ range of electric cars is growing. Find out about this and other models, or indeed any internal combustion vehicles, from us here at MHH International. Find out about our comprehensive system that allows buyers to import from the UK to New Zealand, Kenya and other global destinations.
