[Enzo]

Mercedes has announced that at least two new models will headline their display at the Geneva Motor Show next month. Specifically they mention a concept EQV, which they describe as the 'worlds first SUV in the premium segment with purely battery-electric drive'? How can that be the case since they've already debuted the EQC? Here's a sample of the EQ lineup that will be on display.

 

[PetersBenz]

I heard they had plans to bring back Maybach and in a significant way.
Far out of my league but if features can be trickled down it will mean a lot to us guys buying much cheaper MB's.

 

[Quinn]

That's just poor marketing for anyone who's actually been paying attention. I thought the EQV concept was an electric variant of one of their vans? Guess we will find out soon enough.

 

[Enzo]

Their naming scheme can be a bit difficult to follow and I have a feeling that even auto publications may be mixing up various concepts. I also just read that MB wants to launch more than 10 PHEV's by the end of this year. So we will be seeing a rapid expansion of their electric portfolio.

 

[PetersBenz]

the average person that doesn't care about anything aside from a vehicle that suits their needs will be confused by the naming scheme but ultimately won't matter
its just a way for MB to better organize themselves and help people choose as they look for alternatives coming from other brands.

 

[Quinn]

Did not expect to see so many new variants this year, but hybrids will be crucial in moving more of their consumer base towards their fully electric EQ models. Only enthusiasts will be buying into their first generation models, but its an easier leap to make if you are already in a hybrid.

 

[PetersBenz]

automakers have no choice but to go hybrid because its what gets the sort of money coming in that can then be used for other developments
not to mention all the other factors related to a companies profits and outlook to investors and even the general automotive public

 

[Enzo]

Hybrids also eliminate the range anxiety mindset that many are still contemplating. I highly doubt that most people use more than 200 miles were seeing on new EV's on a given day. At least in Europe the infrastructure is looking to increase two fold over the next year or two.

 

[PetersBenz]

Hybrids also eliminate the range anxiety mindset that many are still contemplating. I highly doubt that most people use more than 200 miles were seeing on new EV's on a given day. At least in Europe the infrastructure is looking to increase two fold over the next year or two.

I think it will help too in getting people into something with less of a carbon footprint. We're all driven by prices and gas prices aren't that bad leaving many to consider not going for EV's just yet. I was sort of in that position till seeing the other benefits of todays EV's

 

[Quinn]

In just a few years time the entry price of new hybrids and electrics will be much more comparable to ICE's. In fact as the technology continues to develop many claim that its only a matter of time before they become cheaper. Once that's the case, the adoption rates are going to skyrocket.

 

[PetersBenz]

For cheaper brands like Hyundai that won't be a problem but the real challenge comes with brands like Mercedes. They have a lot to deliver on, leaving not much room on what would be an affordable EV for the masses.