Mercedes EQA All Electric SUV Test Drive Review
We have a weekend with the EQA all electric vehicle.
It was a back to back electric car test drive month and this EQA keys were handed to us just after we had test driven two other very popular electric SUV’s in the same price range.
SUV’s continue to dominate our roads (also around the world) as new vehicle buyers prefer a high sitting position with a hatchback design. So, this is why all the electric vehicles we tested were from the same segment.
This is also why Mercedes-Benz Malaysia decided to launch the EQA SUV as their first full electric vehicle on sale. The EQA is the name of the compact SUV model to the all-electric world of Mercedes-EQ vehicles.
Just in case you are less informed, this Mercedes SUV has NO petrol or diesel engine, just a large battery powering an electric asynchronous motor at the front wheels.
It is NOT a 4×4 vehicle. Interestingly, there is a petrol version also on sale which looks almost identical called the GLA 250 AMG Line, but with some small differences on the exterior.
EQA Technical
The EQA was launched in Malaysia (combined electric consumption: 15.7 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km) with 140 kW and a range according to NEDC of about 486 kilometres.
The EQA is fitted with a lithium-ion battery with a high energy density. The battery is made up of five modules and is located underneath the passenger compartment in the middle of the vehicle. The lowest point of the vehicle, however, is the lower edge of the side skirts, giving the EQA more than 200mm of ground clearance.
The battery features a “double-decker” design, making it another example of the intelligent use of space: The “nose” of the battery, which accommodates the battery management system, is situated towards the front, behind the center console.
An aluminum housing as well as the body structure of the vehicle itself protect the component from potentially touching the ground and against loose chippings. The battery housing is part of the vehicle structure and thus an integral part of the crash protection.
The powerful high-voltage battery has a maximum voltage of 420 V and a nominal capacity of 190 Ah, giving it an energy content of 66.5 kWh.
The battery is part of the intelligent thermal management system of the EQA. To ensure that it is always kept within the optimum temperature range, it can be cooled or heated as required via a coolant-fed plate underneath the battery.
In order to meet the high standard of noise and vibration comfort that is such a hallmark of the brand, complex measures have been taken to isolate the electric powertrain from the chassis and body. Numerous damping measures enhance this effect.
EQA Cabin
Open the door and get inside and you will find a seating position that is high and comfortable with good all-round visibility. Utility is good with the rear seat backrest allowing for 40:20:40 split-folding.
Simply put, the rest of the cabin is just like the petrol version, well designed, technology filled, well built and nicely put together with commuting comfort for 5 adults.
EQA Driving Range
All electric vehicle drivers talk about driving range and charging stations, it is at the top of their conversation list at every encounter and coffee break.
Here, Mercedes-Benz software designers looked at the needs of the EQA driver on a day-to-day basis and this is why there is a standard feature of Navigation with Electric Intelligence.
What is does is to calculate the fastest route to the given destination. On the basis of continual range simulations, the system makes allowance for any necessary charging stops as well as for numerous other factors, such as the topography and the weather.
It is also able to react dynamically to changes, for instance in the traffic situation or personal driving style to ensure you get to your required battery charging point and not worry about having enough ‘juice’ to continue your drive.
EQA Drive Impression
In city traffic, just like its petrol sibling, this EQA is what any Mercedes-Benz is. Quiet, comfortable and very capable. Turning radius is however better (smaller radius on EVs for tight situations) and provides great cabin insulation which allows passengers to enjoy the premium Mercedes sound system.
Two rear passengers have great comfort and three average adults will be a little tight. There are air vents in the rear and headroom is good. The driver will enjoy the better power delivery (yes EV’s a quick and there is no hesitation) over a petrol powered SUV and the high speed stability is very good as the battery sits in the center under the seats.
EQA Final Word
The first thing you might notice is that this EQA does not deliver a hot hatch acceleration time like its rivals, the Volvo XC40 Recharge and the Hyundai IONIQ 5. This is because Mercedes-Benz engineers designed this electric SUV to be as efficient as possible and deliver good driving range on every battery charge.
Having very spirited acceleration only drains the battery and reduces the driving range and many EV owners are starting to see little use in having quick acceleration (which is a major selling point at showrooms).
It is better to have sensible acceleration and longer driving and less time charging and waiting. Makes sense and provides for a better EV ownership experience.
By the way, if you are a little unsure about owning a new electric vehicle, then you can look at leasing this EQA 250 via Agility Financing and get a better understanding of EV ownership.
Mercedes-Benz EQA EV Specifications
Battery Capacity: 69.7kWh
Useable Battery: 66.5kWh
Efficiency: 187 Wh/km
Range NEDC: 486km
Max power: 190hp
Max torque: 370Nm
Top Speed: 160km/h
0-100 km/h: 8.9 seconds
Selling Price: RM278,201.
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