Future E-Class debuts as Mercedes-Benz reveals new EQE

Mercedes-Benz has capped its all-electric new model reveal at the IAA in Munich off with the EQE that slots-in below the range-topping EQS.

As per its name, the EQE represents the plugged-in equivalent of the E-Class and despite appearing almost similar to its sibling aesthetically, is both shorter and slimmer with an overall length of 4 946 mm versus 5 216 mm, a wheelbase of 3 122 mm compared to 3 210 mm and width of 1 961 mm vs. 2 125 mm. Height is however unchanged at 1 512 mm.

Shown in flagship 350 guise outfitted with the AMG Line styling package, the EQE follows its sibling in being the second model to feature the expansive 56-inch OLED Hyperscreen that combines the 12.3-inch digital instrument with a secondary display on the passenger side of similar size, as well as a 17.7-inch MBUX infotainment system.

Like on the EQS however, the display is an optional extra as the standard setup comprises the mentioned instrument cluster contrasted by a tablet-style 12.8-inch MBUX system derived from the S-Class and C-Class.

Boasting imitation leather sport seats in AMG Line guise, as well as a selection of materials and veneers ranging from open-pore wood and 3D cut faux anthracite to patterned laser cut plastic, the EQE rides on the same dedicated electric vehicle platform as the EQS and can be equipped, optionally, with not only rear axle steering, but also the Airmatic adaptive air suspension that raises the body by up to 25 mm at speeds below 40 km/h.

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As with the EQS, the EQE’s Dynamic Select system boasts five driving modes; Eco, Comfort, Sport and Individual with the selection of the Sport setting resulting in the ride height decreasing by 20 mm at speeds above 120 km/h with the Airmatic option selected.

The biggest difference from the EQS though resides up front where Mercedes-Benz has equipped the EQE with the same 90-kWh battery as the single motor EQS 450, albeit with power and torque outputs dropping from 245kW/550Nm to 215kW/530Nm in ‘350’ guise.

Despite being rear-wheel-drive only for now, a dual-motor all-wheel-drive 4Matic model will be added later with Mercedes-Benz claiming a range, for the former, of 660 km and a waiting time of 31 minutes from 10-80% when using a fast charging DC outlet.

Going on sale in Europe next year followed by other key markets such as the United States and China, the EQE, like the EQS, has not been earmarked for South African introduction anytime soon.