Mercedes-AMG is about to increase its EQ.
Mercedes-Benz’s tuning arm will introduce fettled versions of Mercedes-EQ all-electric models, though it hasn’t confirmed which EQ models will get the AMG treatment.
The first EQ-based AMGs will be launched in 2021.
The tuning arm’s new all-electric powertrain is claimed to have performance levels on par with the current 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine.
With two independent synchronous electric motors and fully variable all-wheel drive, Mercedes-AMG claims a 0-100km/h sprint of less than 4.0 seconds.
Paired with a 400-volt lithium-ion battery adapted for better performance, Mercedes-AMG also claims this powertrain has a theoretical top speed of 250km/h.
The AMG EQ models are being positioned in the performance segment of the 43 and 53 series models, suggesting they won’t be quite as wild to drive as AMG’s 63 series models.
Under the skin, these new models in development are said to share the same electric-exclusive architecture and will receive an AMG-tuned air suspension that optimises the dynamics of the vehicle.
Mercedes-Benz EQS
That suggests it could be EQ models on the new Electric Vehicle Architecture (EVA), like the EQS fastback, that’ll be first to get the AMG treatment.
Visually, Mercedes-AMG is designing these new battery-electric models with the same AMG characteristics of their current models.
That includes vertical louvers on the grille and a unique front apron, rear spoiler, diffuser and wheels.
Mercedes-AMG has also engineered a sound package, titled the ‘AMG Sound Experience’, for these battery-electric variants that amplifies the auditory experience of driving the vehicle via the sound system.
Although this isn’t Mercedes-AMG’s first foray into electric performance vehicles – see the limited-run SLS AMG Electric Drive – this announcement signifies that Mercedes-AMG is investing in a future of battery-electric performance vehicles.
Rival brands are already offering performance variants of their electric offerings.
That includes the Audi E-Tron GT RS and its Porsche Taycan Turbo and Turbo S cousins, as well as the Tesla Model S Plaid.
Other vehicles like the upcoming Lucid Air also showcase the dizzying heights of performance possible with an all-electric vehicle, with the Air offering 805kW of power in its flagship trim.
In addition to introducing its first all-electric vehicle since the SLS AMG Electric Drive, Mercedes-AMG will also launch high-performance plug-in hybrid powertrains.
These are expected to appear in the next-generation C63 and the new GT73e 4-Door Coupe.
