It's EV time! Mercedes-Benz launches EQA, EQB, EQE in the Philippines

Besides the Chinese, the Germans have been pushing hard to make headway in the electric vehicle (EV) market.

The likes of Audi and Porsche have been doing relatively well with their EV offerings in the Philippines. And now, Mercedes-Benz is getting into the game with the launch of three new EV models.

The carmaker officially unveiled the EQA, EQB and EQE battery-electric vehicles on Sept. 20, 2023.

“These vehicles are more than just an evolution; they are a revolution,” IC Star Automotive Inc., the official importer and distributor of Mercedes-Benz in the Philippines, said in a press statement.

“The all-new EQA, EQB and EQE are powered by state-of-the-art electric drivetrains that deliver exhilarating performance while producing zero emissions,” the company added. “This means you can enjoy the legendary Mercedes-Benz driving experience with a clear conscience, knowing you're contributing to a cleaner, greener future.”

EQA: The baby EV crossover

The smallest of this electrified trio is the ₱3,990,000 Mercedes-Benz EQA 250 Electric Art, which is closely related to the non-electric Mercedes-Benz GLA.

Outside, distinctive elements include a black-panel grill with a central star and continuous light strips at the front and rear.

These are complemented by the new 19-inch Electric Art Design light-alloy wheels and LED High Performance headlamps with EQ-specific energy blue element with high beam assist.

The tailgate also gets Hands-Free Access, which includes a sensor in the rear bumper that detects your presence when you have the smart key remote, allowing you to open and close the hatch without touching the car or remote.

The EQA’s interior integrates ambient lighting in spiral-look trim elements that can be configured in 64 different colors, along with rosé-gold accents in the air vents that illuminate in the dark.

There’s also wireless charging and an all-digital 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Passengers likewise get luxuries like two-tone ARTICO leather, Comfort Seats, a rear armrest and THREMOTRONIC automatic climate control.

Mercedes-Benz claims a maximum WLTP range of 496 km, with the 66.5-kWh battery pack charged using a Type 2 cable.

EQB: A more upright EV crossover

Next up is the ₱4,190,000 Mercedes-Benz EQB 250 Electric Art crossover that closely resembles the internal-combustion-engined Mercedes-Benz GLB.

Its Mercedes-Benz black-panel grill gets a full-width LED fiber-optic daytime running light, with the red rear lighting similarly spanning the power liftgate. Blue highlights within the headlamps reinforce the vehicle’s elegant appearance.

Down the side, aluminum-look roof rails work with the 19-inch Electric Art Design light-alloy wheels for a sporty look. Meanwhile, the electrically foldable side mirrors get Surround Lighting with Brand Projection Logo. 

Like the EQA, the EQB has 64-color ambient lighting, while the rose gold-colored elements and the backlit trim emphasize the modern and high-tech feel of the crossover’s interior.

The German EV also gets a bevy of active-safety assists, such as Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Steering Assist and Active Brake Assist. It is aided by a standard Parking Package with a 360-degree camera.

The EQB 250 produces 190 PS and 385 Nm of torque through the front wheels. Mercedes-Benz claims a maximum WLTP range of 474 km from the 66.4-kWh battery pack. 

EQE: Mercedes-Benz’s answer to the BMW i5

At the top of the tree is the Mercedes-Benz EQE, which is a traditional midsize luxury sedan with a non-traditional powerplant.

Two variants are available – the ₱5,590,000 EQE 300 Electric Art and the ₱6,290,000 EQE 350+ AMG Line. The 300 model gets 20-inch, twin-spoke Electric Art Design light-alloy wheels, while the sportier 350+ carries 20-inch, AMG twin-spoke light-alloy wheels. 

The signature black-panel grill with central Mercedes-Benz emblem is accentuated by side skirts in black-grained finish and silver-chrome door trim strips. Both variants come standard with electrically folding exterior mirrors with Mercedes-Benz brand logo projection.

Meanwhile, the Digital Light with ULTRA RANGE high beam won’t just illuminate the roads you’re passing through, but helps project messages on the road and navigation guides regarding road conditions or traffic warning symbols. 

Other active-safety assists include Active Steering Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist and ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection.

The EQE also gets the Parking Package with a 360-degree camera, while the GUARD 360 system ensures your vehicle’s security while you are away. 

Inside, EQE owners are welcomed by a 12.8-inch OLED central display and a 12.3-inch driver display.

These are complemented by a Burmester 3D surround sound system with 15 speakers and standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, along with wireless smartphone charging and a heads-up display.

The EQE 300 features features an 89-kWh battery pack that could deliver a claimed maximum WLTP range of 621 km. On the other hand, the EQE 350+ AMG has a 90.56-kWh that offers a maximum WLTP range of 682 km.

Mercedes-Benz Philippines said test drives for all EQ models will be offered on Sept. 21 to 24, 2023 in Mercedes-Benz Alabang, Mercedes-Benz Bonifacio Global City and Mercedes-Benz Greenhills.

Potential buyers can also head to Mercedes-Benz Cebu on Sept. 28 to Oct 1, 2023 to try out the brand’s EV models.

Which of these three luxury EVs would you choose?

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