ON THE ROAD – IAN LYNAS PREVIEWS A NEW PERFORMANCE EV FROM MERCEDES

Recently I reported on my time behind the wheel of the first performance EV from BMW- the i4 M50 and now Mercedes has responded with their AMG EQS 53 4MATIC; yet another super performance EV to join the ever expanding electric highway.

This is the first all-electric, high-performance saloon from Mercedes-AMG and it is available in two model lines: Night Edition and Touring, both of which feature a 4WD, dual-motor AMG electric drive train producing 658bhp and 950 Nm (761bhp and 1,020 Nm with optional AMG Performance package with the Night Edition). Looking at the range Mercedes state up to 576km (358m) from a 107.8 kWh battery. Given the performance at the command of the right foot and the temptation to explore the full potential performance of this EV, I reckon most will fall well short of the range noted. Looking at performance and the EQS 53 4MATIC+ sprints from rest to 100kph (62mph) in 3.8 seconds and has a top speed of 220kph (137mph) while the EQS 53 Night Edition with the optional AMG Performance Package has a rest to 100kph (62pmph) time of 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 250kph (155mph.) These performance figures are pretty impressive.

The standard specification for both model lines includes Hyperscreen Package with augmented reality head-up display; Nappa leather upholstery; Burmester surround sound system; parking package with Active Parking Assist and 360° camera; AMG specific sound programmes and Driving Assistance Package Plus. Looks for such a car are important and it does stand out; AMG black panel radiator grille with hot-stamped vertical struts in chrome; AMG front bumper painted in body colour; AMG side skirts; AMG rear apron painted in vehicle colour with diffuser-style inserts; AMG spoiler lip on the boot lid; AMG Steering wheel, floor mats and interior detailing. The Night Edition combines performance-focussed AMG body styling with 21 inch AMG alloy wheels, while the interior features a flat-bottomed sports steering wheel, sports pedals and full leather upholstery. These features are enhanced by the optional AMG Performance Package, available exclusively with the Night Edition; this adds AMG high performance ceramic composite braking system; AMG DYNAMIC PLUS boost for RACE START, increasing maximum power and torque for short bursts; AMG Sound Experience and performance with Balanced, Sport and Powerful modes; AMG Driver’s Package with AMG TRACK PACE; and AMG carbon-fibre trim. While the Touring delivers comfortable, classy performance and styling with 22 inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels and Ambient Lighting inside the cabin. These features are enhanced by the optional Rear Luxury Lounge package, which is available exclusively with this version. Exclusive Nappa leather comfort seats in black; electrically adjustable rear seats including sidebags in the rear; luxury head restraints in the rear; MBUX rear tablet; neck and shoulder heating in the rear; climate control for rear seats; comfort rear armrest; wireless charging system for mobile devices in the rear; multi-contour seats in the rear; seat heating plus in the rear; and additional USB ports. This is the perfect combination of luxury and performance.

I am often asked what is the connection between AMG and Mercedes. AMG is the high performance subsidiary of Mercedes, based in Affalterbach, Germany; it independently hires engineers and has contracts with manufacturers to customise Mercedes AMG vehicles. AMG was originally and independent engineering company specialising in performance enhancements for Mercedes vehicles. Daimler Chrysler AG acquired a controlling interest in the late 90s and in 2005 Mercedes became the sole owner.

Ian Lynas