[benzguy]

The aerodynamic development of the EQA was largely undertaken digitally. The ensuing measurements undertaken in the wind tunnel confirmed the high quality of the numerical simulation. With a Cd value from 0.28, the EQA matches the very good figure already achieved by the GLA, although the base model includes larger, 18-inch wheels. The frontal area A totals 2.47 m2.

The EQA develops the already good aerodynamic basis of the GLA further. A new aerodynamic setup was necessary due to the new bumpers and the resulting different diffuser angle. The extent to which the air flow at the front wheels breaks away has been reduced by the design of the bumper and the configuration of the wheel spoilers, designed specifically for the EQA, with their wedge-shaped profiles.

The underbody panelling is also new. As an electric vehicle the EQA has no need for a transmission tunnel, exhaust system and fuel tank, these being replaced by a smooth-surfaced battery. The air flow along the underside of the body is guided virtually unimpeded from the front apron over the engine compartment panelling and three main floor panels through to the similarly enclosed rear axle and diffuser trim. Considerable attention was also given to the details: the ribs that give strength to the underfloor panelling, for example, all run front to back.

The cooling-air intake is also to a design specifically for an electric vehicle: since the EQA has less need of cooling than a car with a combustion engine, the upper part of the cooling-air intake could be completely blanked off. The lower section features adjustable radiator shutters.

The aerodynamic measures at a glance:

• Aerodynamic design of front and rear aprons
• Wheel spoilers with wedge-shaped profile at the front, wheel spoilers at the rear
• Cooling-air control system in the lower section of the front apron, smooth panel enclosing upper air intake
• Improved sealing of radiator section to ensure efficient use of cooling air
• Sealed headlamp surrounds
• Aerodynamically and aeroacoustically optimised exterior mirrors
• Large roof spoiler, side spoilers and air flow break-away edges in the tail lights
• Optimised underbody panelling concept including large trim panels enclosing engine compartment, main floor, rear axle, diffuser and spring links
• Aerodynamically optimised wheels (many enclosed surfaces, minimal concavity, openings in the inner section) and tyres for all sizes of wheel.