2023 Mercedes-AMG EQE Debuts In Two Flavors With Up To 677 HP

The saying ‘there’s no replacement for displacement’ isn’t true in the electric era and Mercedes-AMG is making that perfectly clear as they’ve taken the wraps off the all-new EQE 43 4MATIC and EQE 53 4MATIC+, though the U.S. will only be getting the latter.

Jumping right into the numbers, the EQE 43 4MATIC features a dual-motor all-wheel drive system that develops 469 hp (350 kW / 476 PS) and 633 lb-ft (858 Nm) of torque. It enables the model to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.2 seconds, before hitting an electronically limited top speed of 130 mph (210 km/h).

Power comes from a 90.6 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which is slated to give the car a range of between 287-331 miles (462-533 km) under the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicle Test Procedure. When it comes time to charge, owners will find a standard 11 kW on-board charger, but they can also upgrade to an optional 22 kW charger. The model also features a fast-charging capability of up to 170 kW and this allows the car to be given 112 miles (180 km) of range in as little as 15 minutes.

The EQE 53 4MATIC+ Boasts Up To 677 HP

While the EQE 43 4MATIC is pretty impressive, enthusiasts will want to opt for the EQE 53 4MATIC+. It features an upgraded dual-motor all-wheel drive system that produces a combined output of 617 hp (460 kW / 626 PS) and 701 lb-ft (950 Nm) of torque. This drops the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time to 3.5 seconds, while the top speed increases to 137 mph (220 km/h). However, this comes at a cost as the estimated WLTP range falls to 276-322 miles (444-518 km).

Customers can stretch the performance figures even further by opting for the AMG Dynamic Plus Package, which boosts the output to 677 hp (505 kW / 687 PS) and 737 lb-ft (1,000 Nm) of torque. This cuts the dash to 62 mph (100 km/h) to 3.3 seconds, while the top speed jumps to 149 mph (240 km/h).

AMG-Specific Electric Motors And An Assortment Of Performance Upgrades

Both models have AMG-specific electric motors with a “highly resilient thermal concept, which allows [for] repeated acceleration maneuvers with consistently high performance.” Among the highlights are so-called water lances and AMG-specific cooling elements such as special ribs on the stator and a “needle-shaped pin-fin structure on the inverter, which is made of high-performance ceramics.”

Sport and Sport+ modes optimize performance, while Comfort mode helps to optimize the car’s range by reducing the output 15-20%. Speaking of which, the car’s full output is only available in Sport+ and Race Start modes. Slippery mode reduces the output by half, while even Sport mode only gives you 90% of the car’s available power.

On the topic of range, the car’s stamina could be improved in the future as the company noted it’s possible to install updates for the battery management system over-the-air.  This promises “continuous improvements over the life cycle” of the vehicle.

Engineers also focused on increasing battery life as the EQE features an Eco Charging function, which “reduces the battery load during charging, and thus slows down the natural aging process of the battery.” Furthermore, there’s a “charging interruption” function that can be used to charge the battery at off-peak times when energy prices are lower. Mercedes also noted the battery can be preheated or cooled while driving, in order to reach the optimal temperature for fast charging by the time it arrives at a charging point.

It’s also worth mentioning the AMG variants have three different levels of energy recuperation, which can be adjusted via the steering wheel. This allows for one-pedal driving as well as optimized deceleration when Drive Pilot is engaged.

Sticking with the performance theme, the models feature an AMG Ride Control+ air suspension with adaptive damping. They’re joined by “AMG-specific wheel carriers, suspension links, and anti-roll bars with higher rigidity.” Buyers will also find Michelin Pilot Sport EV tires that have been designed specifically for high-performance electric vehicles.

Another highlight is the rear axle steering system, which is standard on both models. It enables the rear wheels to turn up to 3.6 degrees to improve handling at speeds above 37 mph (60 km/h).  At lower speeds, the front and rear wheels can turn in opposite directions to maximize maneuverability such as when parking.

While electric vehicles are virtually silent, “sound has always been an important part of the hallmark AMG driving experience.” As a result, the AMG versions of the EQE have a “unique sound experience” which is created with the assistance of special speakers, a bass actuator, and a sound generator. Most models come with an Authentic setup, however the AMG Dynamic Plus Package on the EQE 53 adds a Performance take on the idea. Regardless, both offer Balanced, Sport, and Powerful settings.

AMG is known for beefy braking systems and the EQEs don’t disappoint as they come equipped with six-piston front calipers and 16.3 inch (415 mm) front discs, which promise to deliver “first-class deceleration values with high resistance to fading.” They’re joined by single-piston calipers and 14.9 inch (378 mm) discs out back.

Customers who want to take their EV to the track can opt for the optional AMG ceramic braking system. It requires owners to upgrade to 21-inch wheels, but they’ll find larger and thicker front discs measuring 17.3 by 1.6 inches (440 by 40 mm).

Familiar, But Sportier Styling

While the AMG variants are certainly unique, exterior styling changes are relatively subtle. That being said, there’s a fully enclosed grille which features AMG badging as well as vertical chrome accents.

The models also have a sporty front bumper, which mixes body color accents with high-gloss black paint and chrome trim. Buyers will also find a front splitter, aerodynamically optimized wheels, and a larger rear spoiler which reduces lift without significantly increasing drag.

Moving into the cabin, there are AMG sport seats which feature Artico man-made leather as well as microfiber inserts and red contrast stitching. If your eco-friendliness only extends to what you drive, you can also opt for traditional Nappa leather.

Besides the sport seats, the AMG variants feature a flat-bottom steering wheel, sport pedals, AMG floor mats, and plenty of AMG badging. The models can also be equipped with an optional MBUX Hyperscreen, which consists of three separate displays including one for the front passenger.

We’ll learn more about the models closer to launch, but both will slot beneath the Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ that debuted last year.