AMG performance without a bellowing V8? You better believe it.
Yesterday, Mercedes-Benz expanded its family of fully electric vehicles with the unveiling of the EQA, a compact crossover that will do battle with the Tesla Model Y. The EQA is one of several EQ models that will be launched by 2022, boosting the brand's chances of being completely carbon neutral by 2039.
On the other end of the Mercedes spectrum are the red-hot AMG models that have become true BMW M-car challengers. But is it possible for EQ and AMG to come together to produce a high-performance, emissions-free vehicle? Yes, according to recent comments made by Daimler's R&D chief, Markus Schafer. Although details are unclear at this stage, Schafer has said that future EQ-badged EVs will indeed be offered as AMG-enhanced versions.
These EVs should offer a level of performance befitting the AMG badge, encompassing more than some styling upgrades. Not every EQ car will have an AMG variant, though, but space is there for such a model. For instance, the Mercedes EQC is a rapid performer, reaching 60 mph in around five seconds, but it's not nearly as quick as the fastest Tesla Model X. The latter can complete the same sprint in comfortably under three seconds.
Last year, trademark filings for AMG-tuned Mercedes EVs included the EQE 43, EQE 53, and EQS 63, giving us an idea of what to expect. The EQE, for instance, is essentially an all-electric E-Class. Another discussion revealed that designers will be assigned to each Mercedes sub-brand, according to Gorden Wagener, Daimler chief designer. This move will solidify the identity of each sub-brand.
While an electrified AMG model may sound odd, the performance sub-brand has already begun integrating electrification. For instance, the latest Mercedes-AMG E53 sedan utilizes a mild-hybrid system to generate its potent performance, while upcoming AMG versions of the new S-Class will also boast hybrid power. In the case of the latter, we anticipate that total output will exceed 800 horsepower.
A fully-electric EQ model tuned by AMG's engineers would be an entirely different prospect but will allow AMG to support Mercedes' electrification goals while also providing enthusiasts with a highly capable performance vehicle. We'll continue to share more details of these developments as they become available.
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