The EV rivalry has been into utmost competitiveness in recent times with Tesla having several advantages by being a fully-grown electric vehicle maker over the traditional brands. The stringent emission norms in Europe, America and Asia have forced auto giants to slowly opt for electrification as the transitional phase is well underway.
Mercedes-Benz has been showcasing a new EV concept at the ongoing 2018 Indian Auto Expo which would definitely act as a precursor for things to come. The EQ brand is an example for how Mercedes will deal with its future of mobility. And most importantly, the design direction it will carry towards creating a sustainable ecosystem in the long term.
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It earlier trademarked EQ E and EQ S names suggesting regular series of models from the EQ line. It is tipped that the EQ A will play an integral part in Mercedes’ vision of becoming EV segment leader within 2030. It is said to be priced at around £35,000 (approx. Rs. 30 lakh) globally and is a compact hatchback arriving by the end of this decade as Mercedes appears to have clear ambitions ahead in terms of electric mobility solutions.
The EQ A is built on the MEA (Modular Electric Architecture) platform and will take design inspirations from the EQ C. The powertrain will be cheaper and easily accessible with fixed ratio gearbox sending power to the front axle via an electric motor mounted up front. Providing a 4WD system is another motor mounted at the rear with additional performance and range. The EQ branded electric vehicles will enter Indian market down the line.