Development and launch
Internally designated H243,[6] the EQA is based on the MFA2 (second-generation Modular Front-Drive Architecture) platform which it shares with the ICE-powered second-generation GLA that debuted in 2020. The vehicle was revealed with the larger EQB in January 2021, and later went on sale in April of that year.[7] At 4463 mm long, it is just slightly longer than its ICE counterpart. The vehicle was designed by a team under the direction of Balázs Filczer who designed the GLS and the G-Class.[8]
At launch, the only version available was the front-wheel drive EQA 250 (EQA 260 in China).[9] It has a 190 hp electric motor powering the front wheels.[1] Later, Mercedes had announced a more powerful version, using two motors for all-wheel drive and putting out over 260 hp.[10] A longer-range version was also announced.[11]
The EQA 250+ was unveiled in March 2022 with a longer range (540 km WLTP), bigger battery (70.5 kwh), improved aerodynamics and a 140 kW permanent-magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) more efficient than the asynchronous motor of other versions.[12][13] In May 2022, the EQA 250's range has been increased to 490 km WLTP, probably by using the same motor as the new EQA 250+.[14][15][16]
Front-wheel drive comes standard on EQA 250 models, but all-wheel drive on the 300 and the 350 models using the 4matic system. All models use a single-speed transmission. The vehicle is 52 mm longer and 9 mm taller than the GLA, however its width and wheelbase remain the same. Weight ranges from 1965 kg to 2105 kg primarily because of battery size and weight. The variant tested by Euro NCAP was an all-wheel drive 2040 kg variant.
Electric motors are supplied by ZF Friedrichshafen.[17][18] Batteries are placed below the floor. The EQA features "one-pedal driving", which essentially collects kinetic energy and puts it into the battery, which boosts the vehicle's range. All EQA models feature Mercedes' comfort suspension system, which gives a high level of comfort while driving long distances. The Premium package features adaptive dampers which give a more dynamic ride.[19] Safety systems include: Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keep Assist and Active Brake Assist.
The EQA adds a trim called the "Edition 1" trim, which adds 20-inch alloys, leather seats and AMG trimming compared to the normal 250. A limited number of them will be available.
