TO BE HONEST, I WASN'T SURE HOW A FULLY ELECTRIC compact SUV would perform on some of the most stunning mountain roads in the world. The last time I embarked on a similar curves trip in a Merc was a couple of years ago. My ride then was the SL 63 AMG.
But, man, did this EQB surprise me? By now, everyone knows electric cars are agile. But on those narrow, windy roads, its low centre of gravity, instant torque and 4Matic made this a proper mountaineer. Some of the sportscar drivers and motorbike riders couldn't believe their eyes when I silently flew past them on those hairpin turns. When you're driving up passes, the battery quickly depletes, but it starts recuperating on the long way down when you're coasting and braking the latter is only necessary for very tight turns.
Like all Mercedes EQs, electric intelligence finds charging points on your route, even in tiny alpine villages. Its high-voltage battery is brought to an optimal charging temperature before a planned charging stop. The EQB's battery is 66kWh and can be charged up to 100kW. So, yes, with a realistic range of about 370km, my anxiety returns after spending time with the long-range EQS. But 30 minutes from 10% back to 80%, or 15 minutes for 150km, isn't that bad, especially as there are charging stations everywhere - and great views and restaurants. While having an excellent lunch on top of the king of mountain passes, Passo de Stelvio, we even loaded up with hydro-generated green electricity at the highest charging point in Europe.
This story is from the December 2022 - January 2023 edition of GQ South Africa.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the December 2022 - January 2023 edition of GQ South Africa.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
CREATIVE MINDS BEHIND THE CAMERA
A creative director, a filmmaker and a video director - three Ghanaian visionaries share their unique approach to fashion and visual storytelling
Body Odours You Shouldn't Ignore
A little whiff of sweat or muskiness may not be cause for concern, but some smells can signal a health concern that are worth taking a bit more seriously
THE MOST CONSISTENT IN THE GAME
K.O's greatest strength is his adaptability in the evolving music industry while staying true to his roots. From his days as a member of Teargas to solo hits like \"Caracara\" and \"Sete,\" he proves that he is always one step ahead
POWER & PASSION
Off the field and comfortable with SA rugby's MVPs, Eben Etzebeth and Cheslin Kolbe
GUNNING FOR GLORY!
BURNING UP THE GLOBAL STAGE, BLXCKIE HAS A THING OR TWO TO SHOW US ABOUT SUCCESS
Final Edition
From 2025, Jaguar will go fully electric. To say farewell to their internal combustion felines, our motoring editor Dieter Losskarn joined the megabrand in taking their latest F-Type sportscar on one last lap
WRITING THEIR NEXT CHAPTERS OF SUCCESS TOGETHER
The collaboration between Bisquit and Dubouché and Kwesta is kicking into gear with an initiative to drive a new wave of pioneering spirits
Exceeding all the Hype
Group managing director at Fairlawns Boutique Hotel and Spa, Michael Kewley injected charm and artistry into the space, elevating its status of luxury
Grand Cruiser
Our motoring editor Dieter Losskarn was pleasantly surprised by how much he liked the new Prado. In fact, it is one of the best SUV/4x4 vehicles he's driven in a long time. Here's why...
Why Does Everyone Have Big, Fake White Teeth Now?
Veneers were once a dirty secret. Now, they're a luxury status symbol and the famous and wealthy are flocking to Hollywood's favorite dentist in search of even more perfect smiles
