The Mercedes EQB is an electrified version of the GLB 7-seater SUV; prices start from S$305k
Mercedes-Benz Singapore has just announced the launch of the new EQB. This 7-seater compact SUV joins the german marque’s electrified EQ line-up, which currently comprises the EQA and EQC SUVs, and EQS luxury saloon.
The EQB will also be the first model that prospective customers can order and reserve online through the Mercedes-Benz Store. This marks the brand’s first foray into a clicks-and-bricks business model. Buyers can browse the full range of model variants online, place a deposit, and have a sales representative reach out to them at their own convenience and comfort.
Customers will be familiar with the EQB’s distinctive shape, based as it is off the Mercedes GLB. Blue electro-design accents and light fixtures are dotted around the exterior, illustrating the car’s futuristic and signature Mercedes-EQ appearance.
Whether it’s for a large nuclear family or a small extended family, one major selling point of the EQB is its versatility, offering cabin space for up to 7 passengers and diversifying its transport utility. The two seats in the third row is usable by people up to 1.65 metres tall, and ISOFIX anchor points are also available for mounting child seats. A total of up to four child seats can be fitted in rows two and three, plus one more in the front passenger seat.
The EQB features copious amounts of cargo space, spanning from 465 litres (3rd row seats folded) up to a cavernous 1,620 litres. And the seats fold flush into the floor to enable cargo to be loaded and unloaded easily.
Up front, a pair of large displays, dubbed the Widescreen Cockpit by Mercedes, work in tandem to provide drivers with relevant driving information. High-quality materials are used throughout the cabin, and stepping in feels like you’re enveloped in a cocoon of luxury.
Two model variants will be brought into Singapore. The cheaper EQB 250 boasts a power output of 140kW (188hp) and a combined electrical consumption of 16.5kWh/100 km, while its more powerful EQB 350 4MATIC sibling packs a punchier 215kW (288hp) with all-wheel drive, while consuming 18.8kWh/100km. Estimated battery ranges are 423 kilometres for the EQB 250 and 474 kilometres for the EQB 350 4MATIC. Alloy wheels for the model will be available in a bi- or tri-colour design, with rim sizes up to 20-inches in diameter.
The EQB is equipped with a CCS (Combined Charging Systems) port. Using the onboard charger, the EQB can be charged at up to 11 kW with alternating current (AC), requiring approximately 6.25 hours (10-100% state of charge). For direct current (DC) fast-charging stations, the EQB is able to draw a maximum of 100kW of power, which shortens the overall charging time to just over 30 minutes (10-80% state of charge).
Safety is another aspect which is paramount in the EQB, which features intelligent driving assistance systems with cooperative support for the driver. Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Brake Assist are fitted as standard, which can automatically apply the brakes in an emergency for stationary vehicles and crossing pedestrians at typical city speeds. Other enhanced functions of the Driving Assistance Package include the turning manoeuvre function, emergency corridor function, exit warning function, and a warning when pedestrians are detected near zebra crossings.
Stringent requirements for battery safety are also adhered to, with a battery guard located in the front area of the battery preventing the energy storage unit from being pierced by foreign objects. Building on the robust bodyshell structure of the GLB, the chassis of the EQB was adapted to fit the appropriate specifications of an electric car. The battery sits within a frame made of extruded sections, which take on a structural function. Additional safety features include retractable head restraints, seat belts with belt tensioners and force limiters on all outer seats and curtain airbags that cover passengers in the third row.
Prices start from S$305,888 for the EQB 250, and rise to S$352,888 for the EQB 350, all inclusive of COE. For more information, visit the Mercedes website to learn more about the EQB.
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