Mercedes-Benz’ new all-electric EQB crossover is set to arrive in North America this summer, with prices starting from $54,500 in the United States.
The EQB became the latest addition to Mercedes’ electric fleet, following the likes of the EQS sedan and SUV, and the EQE sedan, upon its debut last September. Fittingly, the new crossover features the same, ‘EQ’ bespoke light-band headlamp design that cascades into a blacked-out front grille.
Mercedes-EQ, EQB 300 4MATIC, (Stromverbrauch kombiniert NEFZ: 16,2 kWh/100 km; CO2-Emissionen kombiniert: 0 g/km) , Edition 1; Exterieur: digitalweiß;Stromverbrauch kombiniert NEFZ: 16,2 kWh/100 km; CO2-Emissionen kombiniert: 0 g/km*
Mercedes-EQ, EQB 300 4MATIC, (combined power consumption: 16.2 kWh/100 km, combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km), Edition 1; exterior: digital white;Combined power consumption: 16.2 kWh/100 km, combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km*
Mercedes has now confirmed that sales for the EQB will begin this summer in the US – Canada models are set to follow in the coming months – with two powertrains and two trims available. In both instances, the four-cylinder on Mercedes’ GLB SUV – for which the EQB is an electric counterpart – has been swapped out for at least one electric motor and a “high energy density”, 66.5 kWh battery that drives all four wheels.
The entry level EQB 300 4MATIC features a single motor producing 225 hp and 288 lb ft of torque, and prices, when specced with the ‘Exclusive’ trim, will start from US$55,750. This steps up to US$58,300 if customers select the more premium ‘Pinnacle’ trim.
The more powerful EQB 350 4MATIC model includes a second electric motor, and hikes power and torque up to 288 hp and 384 lb ft respectively. The ‘Exclusive’ is available from US$59,300, while prices for the ‘Pinnacle’ start from US$60,350.
The aforementioned prices include a US$1,050 destination and delivery charge. Mercedes has also outlined the Audi Q4 e-tron and Volkswagen’s ID.4 as its principal rivals.
Highlights for the ‘Exclusive’ trim for both powertrains include the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) Multimedia System – accessible through a 10.25-inch touchscreen – keyless entry, and wireless phone charging. The ‘Pinnacle’ meanwhile adds a Burmester Surround Sound Sound, a panoramic sunroof, and a 360-degree surround camera. Available as standard with five-person seating, customers can bump this configuration up to seven seats for an additional charge.
The estimated electric range in North America has not yet been released for either the 300 or the 350. Upon its debut however, Mercedes estimated that the EQB could cover 419 km in Europe. DC fast-charging from 10 to 80 per cent is also said to take just 31 minutes.
