EQA is the name of the new entry-level model to the all-electric world of Mercedes-EQ vehicles. The electro-aesthetics of its design are indicative of the Progressive Luxury of the Mercedes-EQ brand. Smart assistants support the driver in many areas: for example with respect to accident avoidance, the anticipatory and therefore particularly efficient operating strategy, and Navigation with Electric Intelligence. In addition, the car features various exceptional Mercedes-Benz functions, such as ENERGIZING Comfort and MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience). The EQA is a member of the successful compact car family from Mercedes-Benz. A close relation of the GLA, it delivers all the thrilling characteristics of that vehicle, combined in this case with an efficient electric powertrain. The new EQA is being built in Rastatt (Germany) and Beijing (China). The battery systems for the EQA are supplied by the Mercedes-Benz subsidiary Accumotive in Kamenz. The battery factory in Jawor, Poland, is also preparing to produce battery systems for the compact Mercedes-EQ models. From the spring of 2021, the electric SUV will be available from the European dealerships.
"Mercedes-EQ aspires to take the lead in the field of electric drive systems and vehicle software. To this end, we have defined some ambitious product development goals and resolved to push forward with the accelerated market introduction of new technologies", says Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Mercedes-Benz AG; responsible for Daimler Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars COO. "The new EQA allows us to show the way we envisage e-mobility as tailored to the needs of our customers. We will offer a whole family of EQA models, with output ranging from 140 through to more than 200 kW, and with front-wheel as well as all-wheel drive. And for those for whom the issue of range is particularly important, our portfolio will in due course also include a special version of the EQA with a radius of more than 500 kilometres according to WLTP. The EQA proves that, by using a tried and tested architecture, it is possible to achieve an excellent compromise between performance, costs and time to market."
The more powerful versions of the EQA will be fitted with an additional electric powertrain (eATS) at the rear axle and therefore feature all-wheel drive. The 4MATIC system uses Torque Shift: the distribution of the torque is adjusted 100 times per second as required on a continuously variable basis between the two electric units at the front and rear axles. If the driver does not call for the full output, the motor that is not needed will be completely switched off in order to reduce the base load. In a low load range therefore, the reliance will be on the rear axle with the more efficient, permanently excited synchronous motor (PSM). Higher performance requirements will be met through the additional activation of the asynchronous motor (ASM) on the front axle.
In order to ensure maximum traction and driving stability even on snow and ice, the operating strategy reacts to spinning wheels and adjusts the torque distribution accordingly. Since the two motors are controlled independently of each other, a loss of traction on one axle does not preclude torque being sent to the respective other axle - much as with a conventional central differential lock.
Gruelling test programme around the globe
During testing of the EQA it was possible, on the one hand, to build on the experience already gained with the other models by the test drivers and engineers at Mercedes-Benz. On the other hand, the electric drive system is new to this platform. Additional tests were used to validate its strengths and durability and ensure that it would meet all customer expectations.
Ever since the automobile was invented by Carl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler, Mercedes-Benz has tested its products thoroughly and at length before bringing them to market. Systematic vehicle testing is one of the most extensive measures undertaken by Mercedes-Benz during the development process in order to guarantee the highest possible vehicle quality. Before going into production, the complete vehicle must reach a maturity level that is defined in detail in advance. Then comes intensive trialling of certain components in test vehicles, e.g. in order to ensure the longevity of a drivetrain network (the combination of - depending on the design - electric drive system, differentials, drive shafts, wheels) and individual axle components.