Mercedes-Benz EQV: electric, versatile, intelligent

The Mercedes-Benz EQV is the first premium minivan from Mercedes-Benz to be fully electric. During an international journalistic test in Vienna – a city that is one of the pioneers of electromobility in Europe – the EQV showed its strengths on the road for the first time. The vehicle combines the versatility of a V-Class with zero local emissions.

Mercedes-Benz EQV

In addition, EQV is part of an electromobility ecosystem that includes smart navigation that actively manages range and communication services. The control center is the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system. The EQV also sets the standard in its class with a range of 356 km and a wide range of applications to meet a variety of customer needs.

The battery in the EQV is installed under the floor, which saves space, protects the battery from damage and positively affects the vehicle's center of gravity. As a result, this model offers the same interior versatility and functionality as its conventional-powered sister, the V-Class. Numerous seating configurations mean the vehicle can seat up to eight people and offers a large and adjustable luggage compartment of up to 1,410 liters. The EQV is great for family and leisure use, as well as being used as a prestigious corporate vehicle or hotel van.

The electric minivan with the star is produced at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Vitoria (Spain), where the conventional V-class is also produced. This allows for a more flexible response to customer orders.

Powerful drive

In addition to high functionality, the EQV is a pleasure to drive, and its maximum torque of 362 Nm provides exceptional traction. The electric motor has a peak output of 150 kW (204 hp) and a constant output of 70 kW (95 hp), making the EQV smooth and quiet to drive and at the same time extremely manoeuvrable – not least thanks to the low center of gravity . . Energy is provided by a water-cooled lithium-ion battery with a usable capacity of 90 kWh.

For an exceptionally smooth ride, the optional AIRMATIC air suspension with automatic leveling is available. The system can raise the ride height as needed, and also lower it at higher speeds, thereby reducing air resistance, which has a positive effect on energy consumption and therefore range.

electrical intelligence

EQV is part of an electromobility ecosystem that helps drivers get to their destination without worrying about range. The key to this is the innovative MBUX multimedia system and the Mercedes me app. All EQ-related indicators and settings are user controlled via the 10.25" high-resolution touchscreen display from the MBUX EQ menu. With Electric Intelligence, you can, for example, activate the remote setting of the desired interior temperature before driving, set the charging parameters and control the navigation and Mercedes me Charge functions.

Electric Intelligence launches as soon as you start planning your trip, either via MBUX in the vehicle itself or in advance via the Mercedes me app. This means that family trips can be planned over breakfast, simply by selecting a destination and desired departure time, and travelers will be provided with a comfortable cabin temperature. When launched, MBUX updates the route sent to the vehicle by the app based on a number of factors such as current traffic and weather data, route topography, current range, and available charging stations.

Intelligent route planning

The intelligent navigation system always chooses the best route with the fewest possible stops for recharging and a short charging time. It also takes into account expected charging times, favoring fast charging stations as well as pre-conditioning the battery in preparation for this process. The remaining coverage is constantly updated as you travel. The system responds immediately to changes, such as when the driver changes his driving style, which affects energy consumption. The coverage map feature provides simple and reliable route planning for both private and business customers. The driver immediately sees the remaining range.

Convenient charging

The EQV is available as standard with a choice of charging with alternating current (AC) at home or at public charging stations up to 11 kW and direct current (DC) at fast charging stations up to 110 kW. The fast charging function means that, for example. Taxi drivers and drivers on routes from hotels to airports can often recharge their batteries between trips or while setting up their car without wasting time. It is also possible to define the power state at which the EQV recommends the next refueling, or the range that should remain upon arrival at the destination.

Mercedes me Charge provides access to over 300 public charging stations, including IONITY fast charging points. Before charging, registered customers identify themselves via MBUX, the Mercedes me app or the Mercedes me Charge card – everything else, including payments, is done automatically.

Effective recovery and driving programs

Energy recovery during braking and deceleration (recuperation) ensures an optimized and efficient driving experience. The intensity of the recuperation can be individually adjusted using the paddles located behind the steering wheel. Drivers can choose from five levels of recuperation:

• In DAuto EQV mode, dynamically and predictably adjusts the regeneration level from 0 to -2 m/s² based on data provided by safety assistants, camera and navigation.
• In D+EQV mode it works freely (at idle) without recuperation (0 m/s2).
• In D mode, the EQV decelerates with a regenerative force comparable to normal engine braking (-0.6 m/s2).
• In D-mode, the recuperation force increases to -1.5 m/s2.
• In D-mode, the electric motor provides a maximum recuperation force of -2 m/s2. In this mode, you can use the so-called. driving with one pedal.

There are also four driving programs that allow you to choose between maximum comfort and maximum range:

• The standard Comfort setting delivers 150 kW of all-wheel drive power and 362 Nm of maximum torque, combined with high heating and air conditioning performance.
• The Eco program offers good heating and air conditioning, an optimized range and a power output of 100 kW (150 kW in low gear) with a maximum torque of 293 Nm.
• The Eco+ program is set to maximum coverage. Power output is 80 kW (150 kW in low gear) with a maximum torque of 293 Nm. Heating and air conditioning capacity is severely limited.
• The Sport program emphasizes the best response during sporty driving. It delivers an engine power of 150 kW and a maximum torque of 362 Nm, combined with even more dynamic acceleration and efficient heating and air conditioning.

Vehicles equipped with AIRMATIC air suspension also have a lift function that raises the vehicle at low speeds, increasing ground clearance.

Photo: Mercedes-Benz