Mercedes EQV Completes Winter Testing, Will Launch This Summer

You’d be forgiven for believing the Mercedes-Benz EQV is on sale, as the electric MPV was unveiled in September 2019 at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

The reality is the automaker is still applying the finishing touches on the vehicle ahead of its market launch scheduled for the second half of 2020. Until then, Mercedes-Benz is keeping us up to date with the EQV’s development.

Recently, the electric MPV completed a tough endurance winter test in Arjeplog, Sweden, proving its operability under extreme conditions. For several weeks, the development team drove the EQV on icy roads and deep snow, at temperatures reaching minus 30 degrees Celsius (minus 22 degrees Fahrenheit).

The team of over 30 engineers, electronics experts and mechanics from Mercedes-Benz Vans put the EQV test vehicles through numerous complex tests on the test site close to the Arctic Circle.

Using specialized measuring technology, the team assessed the effects of extreme cold on handling, ergonomics and comfort. Cold cell facilities were also used to test the starting behavior and low-temperature resistance of the drive components, software and interfaces, as well as the thermo-management of the entire vehicle.

Last but not least, Mercedes-Benz has assessed the EQV’s charging behavior near the Arctic Circle. The electric MPV features an integrated fast-charging function which enables it to recharge the battery from 10 to around 80 percent in 45 minutes. The team made sure the system functions reliably regardless of the temperature.

“In this final winter test, we demanded everything of the EQV – and it performed very well. We used these extensive tests for the last milestones on the way to market readiness”, said Benjamin Kaehler, Head of eDrive@VANs at Mercedes-Benz Vans. “Particularly with regard to thermal management, so important to electric vans, we were able to gain insights which will make the EQV safer and more comfortable,” he added.

The EQV is the second model of the Mercedes-Benz EQ technology brand, after the EQC SUV. Available in two wheelbases, it is powered by a 90 kWh lithium-ion battery which feeds electricity to a 204 PS (201 HP /150 kW) front-mounted electric motor for a maximum driving range of 405 km (252 miles). Delivering a peak torque of 362 Nm (267 lb-ft), the motor enables to EQV to reach an electronically limited top speed of 160 km/h (99 mph).