It’s no secret that Mercedes-Benz is planning on expanding its electric car lineup beyond the current B-Class and Smart ForTwo. This week the automaker is giving the world a preview of its next-generation of electric cars with the debut of the Generation EQ concept at the Paris Motor Show. Just like BMW, Mercedes-Benz is going to create a sub-brand for its electric cars, which will be called “EQ,” which stands for “Electric Intelligence.”
The Generation EQ concept previews an electric SUV that will go head-to-head with models like the Tesla Model X and upcoming Audi Q6 e-tron. It will then be followed by a range of electric cars that will all feature the EQ name with a third letter to signify its positioning in the lineup, like EQS and EQC. Even though there will be several new electric models, they will be based on the same modular platform that places the battery in the floor of the vehicle and an electric motor at one or both of the axles.
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The Generation EQ concept is powered by two electric motors that deliver a combined output of around 400 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Since there are two motors, the concept is essentially an all-wheel drive electric vehicle and Mercedes-Benz expects a 0-60 mph time of less than 5.0 seconds. The concept’s large 70 kWh lithium-ion battery will give it a driving range around 300 miles on a single charge.
Beyond the electric powertrain, the Generation EQ concept also previews new technology on the inside that we may see in the not too distant future, like OLED displays in the steering wheel and a 24-inch high-definition wide-screen display that presents relevant information, such as speed, range, driving data or navigation and map details. The driver and passengers will also enjoy the four individual seats that provide a feeling of floating in space. The avant-garde seat upholstery features side bolsters that are covered in light-white leather, while perforations with a pixel rain look reveal a view of particles in rose gold. Speakers are also integrated into the head restraints, and TFT monitors for rear-seat entertainment are integrated into the front backrests.
Mercedes-Benz hasn’t announced when the first EQ models will be introduced, but the first models are expected by the end of the decade.
+ Mercedes-Benz
All images @ Mercedes-Benz
