After a long wait, Mercedes-Benz has finally introduced its EQ range to South Africa. 2022 will see the EQA, EQB, EQC, EQE, and EQS all arriving in local showrooms. Currently, the range mirrors the brand's petrol and diesel-powered range.
The EQA and EQB are essentially the battery-powered versions of the GLA and GLB. The EQC, based on the GLC, will rival the Audi e-Tron and BMW iX3. Lastly, the EQE and EQS are electrified versions of the E-Class and S-Class.
While electric vehicles aren't as popular in SA as they are in other parts of the world, Mercedes is the latest to introduce their EVs to the local market. BMW has offered the i3 for quite some time and has now added the iX luxury SUV. Audi has also bolstered their electric offerings.
In the next two decades, Mercedes aims to have a carbon-neutral passenger car fleet, with more than 50% of their sales made up of all-electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids.
As for the cars, the EQA 250 will have a power output of 140 kW, with a maximum range of 412 km. A combined electrical consumption of 17.7 kWh/100 km is achievable. The EQB will be available as the 350, with 4Matic all-wheel drive. 215 kW gives it plenty of punch, with a slightly higher range (419 km) and a combined electrical consumption of 17.4 kWh/100 km.
The largest SUV offering of the bunch is the EQC. This derivative has 300 kW and a very impressive range of 300 kW. Lastly, the combined electrical consumption is 21.3 kWh/100 km.
Using a more traditional body style, the EQE and EQS are truly bringing the sedan into the future. Mercedes says the EQE offers all "the essential functions" of the top-of-the-range EQS, but in a smaller body shell. The EQE's interior is bigger than the regular E-Class.
The elegant luxury EQS has an incredible 780 km of range and 385 kW, depending on the model. For now, SA will receive the 245 kW EQS 450+, with a combined electrical consumption of 18.9-16.2 kWh/100 km.
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FAQ
Q: What electric Mercedes-Benz models are available in South Africa in 2022?
Mercedes-Benz brought five electric models to South Africa in 2022: the EQA 250, EQB 350 4Matic, EQC 400 4Matic, EQE 350+, and EQS 450+, with the range covering everything from compact SUVs to luxury sedans.
Q: Which Mercedes EQ model has the longest range in South Africa?
The Mercedes EQS 450+ offers the longest range at 780 km on a single charge, making it perfect for those Joburg to Cape Town trips without range anxiety.
Q: How does the Mercedes EQC compare to BMW iX3 and Audi e-tron?
The Mercedes EQC 400 4Matic delivers 300 kW of power and competes directly with the BMW iX3 and Audi e-tron in the luxury electric SUV segment, though it has a slightly shorter range at around 400 km compared to some rivals.
Q: Are Mercedes electric cars worth buying in South Africa?
Mercedes electric cars are worth considering if you can handle the premium pricing, have access to charging infrastructure, and want German luxury with zero emissions, though petrol options still make more sense for most South African driving conditions.
Q: What is the most powerful Mercedes EQ model available in SA?
The Mercedes EQS 450+ is the most powerful EQ model available locally, producing 385 kW in international spec, though the SA-bound version delivers 245 kW with exceptional refinement and luxury.
Should You Buy It?
The Mercedes EQ range represents a solid entry into premium electric motoring, but whether you should buy depends on your budget and charging situation. The EQA 250 starts the range as the most accessible option, while the EQS 450+ sits at the luxury pinnacle with its 780 km range and 245 kW output. For most buyers, the EQC 400 4Matic offers the best balance of space, performance, and range at around 400 km per charge. However, the limited charging infrastructure outside major cities and premium pricing mean these cars work best for affluent urban drivers with home charging setups. If you want German luxury with zero emissions and can afford the premium, the EQ range delivers, but traditional petrol Mercedes models still offer better value and practicality for most South African conditions.
