Mercedes-Benz IAA Mobility Show Stoppers

New vehicles were introduced at the Mercedes-Benz IAA display at Munich’s 2021 IAA Mobility show early in September. Napleton News took note that quite a few surprises were revealed. One of the most important: Mercedes-Benz will become an electric-only automaker by the end of the decade.

Among the highlights that were revealed at the Mercedes-Benz IAA display: The first AMG-branded high-performance EV. A sedan and a midsized electric SUV.  And finally: the big news of the new G-Class SUV EV concept with some surprisingly stout off-roading chops. Also at this time, the brand has started producing the all-electric EQS, the electric counterpart to the luxurious Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Read along as the Napleton News takes a look at what else is up at Mercedes-Benz.

Mercedes-Benz IAA is the site for future shock

In early 2021, Mercedes-Benz committed $47 billion towards electrification of the brand. At the same time, it would retrain its workforce and secure the batteries needed to power its fleet. The plan helps to achieve the goal of electrifying through gas-hybrid, plug-in hybrid (PHEV) or battery electric vehicles. The company plans to have at least one battery-electric vehicle in each of its segments.

By 2025 Mercedes plans to offer three electric-only platforms in its new vehicle lineup moving forward. The MB.EA platform supplants the brand’s midsize to large passenger cars. The AMG. EA will support the performance AMG cars while the VAN. EA will be dedicated to passenger vans and commercial vehicles. The MMA Mercedes “Electric First” compact car architecture will launch by 2024. Let’s take a look at some others:

Mercedes-Benz EQB

The new Mercedes-Benz EQB will be the first electrically powered vehicle from MB’s factory in Hungary. When delivered to the United States in 2022, it will apppear in two styles. It launches first as the EQB 300 4Matic with 255 horsepower and 288 lb-ft of torque. Next will be the EQB 350 4Matic with 288 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. The range for the EQB will be approximately 260 miles. Mercedes-Benz states a longer-range model will appear, as well as a front-wheel drive version. The EQB can carry up to seven passengers.

The electric powertrain features a compact electric motor, a fixed-ratio transmission and standard navigation with Electric Intelligence. This navigation system calculates the fastest route and plans optimal battery usage and charging stops. It also ensures the batteries are at the right charging temperature before a planned charging stop, if needed.

Mercedes-Benz EQE350

The Mercedes-Benz EQE is roughly the equivalent of an electrified E-Class sedan. It is powered by a single electric motor producing 288 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. Power comes from a 90 kWh battery with around 410 miles of range. It can charge an additional 155 miles within 15 minutes of fast charging. Expect other variations of this model, including 4Matic all-wheel drive and perhaps an AMG variant.

The EQS will also include advanced driver assistance systems, rear-wheel steering and automatically opening front doors. The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) system will be available with its Hyperscreen multiscreen connected entertainment system. Its interior will also be roomier than the current E-Class Mercedes-Benz Sedan.

Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC

The Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4Matic is the first battery-electric AMG production model centered around the Mercedes EQ architecture. Built at AMG in Affalterbach, it is a silent, zero-emissions muscle car. It includes special hardware inside and out, so it can “croon” as it moves, giving those inside and out the full AMG experience.

Two electric motor generators power the AMG EQS 53. With their huge output, drivers will have 658 horsepower under their right foot. Push the “Race Start” button to receive up to 761 horsepower and 742 lb-ft of torque. The feeling is like a Formula 1-like start hitting 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds. Top speed is a governed 155 mph, although we think the governor will be unleashed at some point. Maybe.

A regenerative braking system helps to send energy back to the battery packs, which have 108 kWh of storage capacity. This amount is good for approximately 360 miles, depending on how heavy your foot is. The car is also equipped for DC fast charging when necessary.

The AMG EQS 53 4Matic launches late in 2021.

Mercedes Concept EQG Electric G-Wagon

The Mercedes Concept EQG is an all-electric G-Class off-road concept vehicle. It’s based on the world-famous and highly aspirational Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen. It is designed to leave nothing out. It provides drivers with the famous 4×4 capability of the standard Gelandewagen, and the luxury of the other EQ models.

Power is delivered to each wheel by its own individual electric motor. This arrangement allows true 4×4 adaptability, especially when there is slippage from one of the tires. Torque can then be sent to the other three wheels to help pull the EQG out of a slippery situation. Sorry. There is also a two-speed gearbox for added off-road capabilities. An independent front and solid axle rear suspension kit helps keep it well-grounded.

Mercedes builds concepts to be a part of the Mercedes-Benz IAA display and to gauge customer reaction to these concepts. We think this Mercedes Concept EQG design concept is something special and deserving of the Three-Pointed Star in its grille.