Mercedes-Benz took everyone by surprise with the reveal of the Concept EQV at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show. The newest and the biggest member of the growing EQ family and its production version are expected to arrive at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The EQV was joined by the new-gen CLA Shooting Brake and the India-bound GLC-Class at the Geneva stage.
Concept EQV:
The all-electric version of the V-Class MPV is powered by what Mercedes calls the ‘compact electric drivetrain (eATS)’. It has an electric motor, fixed ratio transmission, cooling system, and electronics sitting atop the front axle. The powertrain has a combined output of 201 horsepower, a battery capacity of 100kWh and an electric range is 400 kilometres. Top speed is rated at 160kmph. The electric van also has a rapid charging system with a 100km charge in a mere 15 minutes. Akin to the standard V-Class, the EQV has both seven- and eight-seat configuration. The cabin has the MBUX infotainment system as well but it is integrated into a floating screen instead of the usual wide-screen set-up.
CLA Shooting Brake:
Following the new-gen CLA last year, the Shooting Brake version was first showcased at the Geneva. Compared to the model it replaces, the new Shooting Brake is 48mm longer, 53 mm wider and sits 2mm lower. The new cabin is more spacious than before, claims Mercedes since the previous one was a little bit cramped. The wheelbase has increased by 30mm and the roofline has made way for an additional 8mm as rear passenger headroom. The boot space is a whopping 505litres with better accessibility owing to increased tailgate width. All the other features seen on standard CLA and A-Class are part of the package in the new CLA Shooting Brake. Powertrain options now also include the 2.0-litre engine with 225bhp and 350Nm output which is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. More engine options will follow later along with AMG versions.
GLC-Class:
The 2020 GLC has undergone a mid-life update which includes tweaked cosmetic updates and a whole host of new comfort, entertainment and driver assistance features. The changes on the outside include new LED headlamps and a redesigned rear with new exhaust tips. Inside, there’s a new MBUX infotainment system and advanced driver assistance features including active steering assist as well as active brake assist. Under the hood, there is a new set of four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, now offered with 48-volt electrical systems and a belt-driven starter generator. The GLC is an important car for India and it will reach our shores in a few months’ time.