EQA is the name of the new entry-level model to the all-electric world of Mercedes-EQ vehicles. The electro-aesthetics of its design are indicative of the Progressive Luxury of the Mercedes-EQ brand. Smart assistants support the driver in many areas: for example with respect to accident avoidance, the anticipatory and therefore particularly efficient operating strategy, and Navigation with Electric Intelligence. In addition, the car features various exceptional Mercedes-Benz functions, such as ENERGIZING Comfort and MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience). The EQA is a member of the successful compact car family from Mercedes-Benz. A close relation of the GLA, it delivers all the thrilling characteristics of that vehicle, combined in this case with an efficient electric powertrain. The new EQA is being built in Rastatt (Germany) and Beijing (China). The battery systems for the EQA are supplied by the Mercedes-Benz subsidiary Accumotive in Kamenz. The battery factory in Jawor, Poland, is also preparing to produce battery systems for the compact Mercedes-EQ models. From the spring of 2021, the electric SUV will be available from the European dealerships.
The Mercedes-Benz EQA features the black panel radiator grille with central star that is the hallmark of Mercedes-EQ. A further distinctive design feature of the all-electric world of Mercedes-EQ vehicles is the continuous light strip at front and rear. A horizontal fibre-optic strip connects the daytime running lights of the full-LED headlamps, ensuring a high level of recognisability both in daylight and at night. The inside of the headlamps is finished to a high level of quality, detail and precision. Blue colour highlights within the headlamp reinforce the signature Mercedes-EQ appearance. The LED tail lamps merge seamlessly into the tapered LED light strip, thus underlining the impression of width in the rear view of the EQA. The licence plate has also been relocated to the bumper. Exclusive to this model are light-alloy wheels in a bi- or tri-colour design, up to 20 inches in size, in some cases with rosé gold-coloured or blue decorative trim. An indication of the electric character in the interior of the EQA is provided, depending on the design and equipment line, by a new-style back-lit trim element and rosé gold-coloured decorative trim on the ventilation outlets, seats and the vehicle key. The Edition 1 special model additionally features perforated leather seats, through which blue fabric can be seen.
It is also possible to set the pre-entry climate control for the interior of the EQA before starting. This function is controlled directly from the MBUX infotainment system or via the Mercedes me App. With a Cd value from 0.28, the EQA achieves an excellent result. The frontal area A totals 2.47 m2. Among the most important aerodynamic measures are the completely closed cooling air control system in the upper section, the aerodynamically efficient front and rear aprons, a very smooth, almost completely enclosed underbody, specially optimised Aero wheels and specifically adapted front and rear wheel spoilers. Adding to the general ease of using the EQA on a day-to-day basis is the standard feature of Navigation with Electric Intelligence. This calculates the fastest route to the given destination. With Mercedes me Charge, customers have access to what is currently the world’s biggest charging network: this currently comprises more than 450,000 AC and DC charging points across 31 countries. Mercedes me Charge allows Mercedes-EQ customers convenient use of the charging stations of various providers, while they also benefit from an integrated payment function with simple billing processes.
The EQA is being launched as the EQA 250 (combined electrical consumption: 15.7 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km) with 140 kW and a range according to NEDC of 480 kilometres. The “double-decker” lithium-ion battery, which sits as a structural element within the underbody of the vehicle, has a usable energy content of 66.5 kWh. Further variants to meet specific customer requirements will follow. These will include on the one hand all-wheel-drive models with an additional electric powertrain (eATS), and on the other hand a version with a range of more than 500 kilometres (WLTP). An asynchronous motor is used at the front axle. The electric motor, a fixed-ratio transmission with a differential, the cooling system and the power electronics form a highly integrated, very compact unit – the electric powertrain (eATS). The transmission ratio and gear wheels have been configured for the requirements of the front-wheel drive system.
The balance of performance between the front and rear axles in the 4MATIC versions is intelligently adjusted up to 100 times per second, depending on the driving situation. The Mercedes-EQ philosophy is to optimise consumption by using the rear electric motor as often as possible, while the asynchronous motor at the front axle generates only minimal drag losses in partial-load operation. The more powerful models include a further electric powertrain (eATS) at the rear axle featuring a redesigned, permanently excited synchronous motor. This is extremely compact in design. In a permanently excited synchronous motor, the rotor of the AC motor is studded with permanent magnets. The magnets – and thus the rotor – follow the rotating alternating current field in the winding of the stator. The engine is said to be synchronous, because the rotor turns at the same rate as the magnetic field of the stator. The rate is adjusted to the speed requirements of the driver in the frequency converters of the power electronics. In overrun mode or during braking, the electric motors become alternators: their mechanical rotation is converted into electrical energy and used to charge the high-voltage battery – a process known as recuperation.
The EQA is fitted with a lithium-ion battery with a high energy density. The battery is made up of five modules and is located underneath the passenger compartment in the middle of the vehicle. The lowest point of the vehicle, however, is the lower edge of the side skirts, giving the EQA more than 200 mm of ground clearance. The battery features a “double-decker” design, making it another example of the intelligent use of space: The “nose” of the battery, which accommodates the battery management system, is situated towards the front, behind the centre console. An aluminium housing as well as the body structure of the vehicle itself protect the component from potentially touching the ground and against loose chippings. The powerful high-voltage battery has a maximum voltage of 420 V and a nominal capacity of 190 Ah, giving it an energy content of 66.5 kWh. The battery is part of the intelligent thermal management system of the EQA. As for all other high-voltage batteries, Mercedes-Benz issues a battery certificate, thus providing a performance warranty. This is valid for eight years or a distance covered of 160,000 kilometres.
