Mercedes-Benz EQA, EQB Upgraded, More Intelligence

Bennett  Oghifo

With their striking SUV bodies, powerful electric drive and predictive navigation with Electric Intelligence, the two all-electric members of the Mercedes-Benz compact car family have gained many fans. Now the EQA and EQB are becoming even more attractive to newcomers and those switching to electric vehicles – thanks to fresh looks, numerous efficiency updates and new, useful features. MBUX with improved voice control and driving assistance systems are updated; with Plug & Charge charging technology and optional Sound Experiences, innovations from the larger model siblings are making their way into the compact class. For the first time, a trailer hitch[1] is available as an optional extra for the EQB with five seats.

The updated versions of the EQA and EQB can be ordered starting in the fall of 2023 and will arrive at European dealers right at the beginning of 2024.

Updated exterior and interior design

With a newly designed black panel surface with its star pattern[2] at the front, the EQA and EQB visually catch up with their larger model siblings. A light band connects the daytime running lights of the headlights while a new bumper emphasises the broad effect of the vehicle front. The designers have also changed the insides of the taillights. The innovations in the interior include the current-generation steering wheel with touch control panels as well as the trim in brown lime open-pore wood[3], Mercedes-Benz pattern[4] and backlit Mercedes‑Benz pattern[5].

Longer range through technical optimisation

With extensive detail, the engineers at Mercedes-Benz have been able to increase the ranges of the EQA to up to 560 kilometres[6] according to WLTP. The measures include aerodynamic optimisation and highly rolling-resistance-optimised tyres. The new range-maximisation function is helpful in everyday use: energy consumers such as the display or air conditioning can be switched off or their functionality limited in favour of more range.

Trailer hitch1 as special equipment for the EQB

For the EQB with five seats, a trailer hitch including ESP® trailer stabilisation is available as an option for the first time. The maximum braked towing capacity is 1,400 or 1,700 kg (disclosures for front-wheel drive/4MATIC version).

Easier and more convenient charging with Plug & Charge

With the Mercedes me Charge[7] Plug & Charge function, the latest EQA and EQB models can be charged even more conveniently at Plug & Charge-enabled public charging points: when the charging cable is plugged in, the charging process starts automatically; customers do not need to additionally authenticate themselves. The vehicle and charging station communicate directly via the charging cable.

Up to four Sound Experiences

Different sound worlds that allow individual acoustic setups are familiar from the larger all-electric models from Mercedes-Benz. Now these Sound Experiences are also available for the EQA and EQB in conjunction with the optional Burmester® surround sound system. In addition to “Silver Waves” and “Vivid Flux,” two further sound worlds can be unlocked online as part of the Individualisation Package (optional equipment).

Central display as standard

EQA and EQB feature an updated generation of MBUX. The appearance of the displays can be customised with three display styles (subtle/sporty/classic) and three modes (navigation/assistance/service). As part of the slightly changed offer logic, the central display is now part of the standard equipment. The presentation of the charging features within MBUX has also been improved. By activating online services in the Mercedes me app [8], the intelligent voice assistant becomes even more capable of dialogue and learning.

Dolby Atmos® optionally available for an immersive audio experience.

The optional Burmester® surround sound system, in conjunction with the newer MBUX generation, features the immersive Dolby Atmos® audio experience. This gives music more space, clarity and depth. In addition, Dolby Atmos® adapts to the playback environment so listeners can hear music almost as clearly as the original vision of the artists in the studio.

Driving assistance systems with improved sensor technology

Improved sensor technology includes a new mono-multipurpose camera and a new backup camera. The optional Driving Assistance package contains improved functions in detail. For example, Active Lane Keeping Assist now works more comfortably with steering intervention instead of ESP.

Net-carbon-neutral production

Since 2022, production at all of Mercedes-Benz’s own passenger car and van plants worldwide has been net carbon neutral. This includes the plants in Rastatt (Germany) and Kecskemét (Hungary) responsible for the production of the EQA and EQB, as well as the battery plants in Kamenz (Saxony) (Mercedes-Benz subsidiary Accumotive) and in Jawor (Poland). Mercedes-Benz has also made the net-carbon-neutral production of battery cells a key requirement for battery cell partners. This enables the production emissions of a cell to be reduced by around 30%. A further reduction of carbon footprint is targeted through emissions reduction in the cathode material and the use of renewable energies in the production and refinement of raw materials.

[1] Not available at market launch.

[2] Standard with Electric Art and AMG Line as well as in conjunction with the Night Package

[3] Optionally available for Progressive and Night Package

[4] Standard with Progressive

[5] Standard for Electric Art and AMG Line; optional for Progressive

[6] The EQA 250+ (WLTP: electricity consumption combined: 14.4-16.4 kWh/100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 0 g/km) will achieve a range of 560 km according to WLTP. Information on electricity consumption and range is provisional and was determined internally in accordance with the “WLTP test procedure” certification method. Neither confirmed values from an officially recognised testing organisation nor an EC type approval nor a certificate of conformity with official values are available to date. Deviations between the data and the official values are possible.

[7] In order to be able to use the Mercedes me “Mercedes me Charge” connect service, a separate charging contract with a selected third-party provider is required via which payment and invoicing of the charging processes takes place. The use of Mercedes me connect services requires a personal Mercedes me ID and agreement to the terms of use for Mercedes me connect services. Country restrictions apply.

[8] In order to use the Mercedes me connect services, it is necessary to create a Mercedes me ID and agree to the Terms of Use for the Mercedes me connect services. The services shown and their availability and functionalities depend in particular on the vehicle model, year of manufacture, optional equipment selected and country.