Mercedes-Benz Concept EQA would make sense for Australia

Revealed at the 2017 Frankfurt motor show, the Mercedes-Benz EQA concept previews the second, dedicated all-electric model from the German marque following on from the EQC and according to local representatives, it would make sense for Australia.

It’s not just a boring concept either, more hot hatch than enviro-friendly conveyance. The high performance EQA generates 200kW, putting it right in current hot hatch territory. There’s clever tech at play too, with the AWD hatch able to move its electric power from wheel to wheel or axle to axle as needed.

Driving range is claimed to be around 400 kilometres on a fully charged battery.

There’s an electric motor on each axle, meaning the EQA doesn’t need differentials, while selectable drive modes mean you can move torque to the rear axle for a more traditional performance feel.

According to David McCarthy, Senior Manager, Public Relations, Product and Corporate Communications for Mercedes-Benz Australia, the EQA also makes sense for Australia.

“We haven’t had the discussion yet, because initially we weren’t able to get the car,” McCarthy said. “Now we can. It wasn’t going to be built in right-hand drive, but now that is confirmed.”

McCarthy says the EQA perfectly suits the theory that Mercedes-Benz should be giving buyers as many options across all segments and technology platforms.

“Look in California, look in Germany, it just makes sense that you can give people in the market a choice,” he said. “If you put effort into the infrastructure, and the more companies who are involved, the better.”

As expected though, the biggest obstacle to alternative fuels of any kind – certainly so far as the manufacturers see it – is government action, or lack thereof.

“There needs to be a commitment from government to vehicles that are powered alternatively in terms of infra, regulation and potential incentives.” McCarthy said.

“Currently there is a complete absence of that. Some policy, any policy would be good. Government understands the issues, but there is glorious inaction.”

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