2022 Mercedes-Benz EQE is electric E-Class equivalent

Interior 

It is further differentiated from the conventionally fuelled E-Class by an interior design that’s familiar from the EQS, complete with the option of the larger car’s 1410mm-wide ‘Hyperscreen’ infotainment device. Spanning the width of the dashboard, this high-definition screen is described as giving “zero layer” access to the key functions of the MBUX operating system, so the user does not need to cycle through multiple menus. The front passenger has control of their own 12.3in OLED display, which in Europe is automatically dimmed when showing ‘dynamic content’ so as not to distract the driver. 

Over-the-air system updates and upgrades will be available from launch, offering enhanced features such as the ‘Roaring Pulse’ sound mode (which gives the option of a “large-volume combustion engine” soundtrack), specially developed driving modes for young drivers and technicians, in-built video games and uprated headlight technology. 

The flat-floored EQE also goes without a transmission tunnel, instead adopting a floating centre console, which is mirrored by a similar set on the door panels with controls for the seats and doors. 

Mercedes claims the EQE is “one of the very best vehicles in its class” when it comes to noise reduction. A foam coating fills various cavities and insulates the electric motors to reduce wind and drivetrain noise, as do bespoke uprated seals for the door handles, mirrors and windows. There is also a subtle trim element at the base of the A-pillar that reduces noise, improves airflow and helps to keep the side windows clean. 

Powertrain

Two variants will be available from launch: the EQE 350, with 288bhp and 391lb ft on tap from its rear-mounted motor, and an as yet undisclosed second drivetrain option. Performance details remain under wraps, but Mercedes says the motor’s permanent magnets ensure “high power density, high efficiency and high power constancy”. 

Four-wheel-drive 4Matic models will arrive later, potentially matching the most potent EQS variant’s 751bhp in top-flight AMG EQE 53 guise. Dynamic upgrades available for all models include Mercedes-Benz S-Class-derived air suspension and a choice of rear-axle steering systems that can reduce the turning circle by up to 1.8m. 

For now, the EQE is equipped with a 10-cell, 90kWh (usable) lithium ion battery offering an expected range of 339-410 miles on the WLTP cycle, which gives it longer legs than most rivals, at least in more efficient rear-driven form. It can be charged at speeds of up to 170kW, which means the EQE can gain some 155 miles of range in as little as 15 minutes, and is topped up on the move by regenerative brakes, which allow for one-pedal driving in their highest setting. 

Mercedes is also keen to highlight its “holistic approach to the battery life cycle”, which will see EV batteries taken out of cars at the end of their usable lives and employed in energy storage facilities, rather than being recycled immediately. The battery’s life will also be extended for as long as possible while it is in the car, courtesy of over-the-air software updates that work with the EV-specific navigation platform to determine the best heating and cooling cycles for optimal performance.