In October 2020, Mercedes-Benz India launched its first electric SUV in India. The model is originally offered in six cities: Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad, with an on-road price of Rs 99.30 lakh. It’s imported as a CBU (fully built up) vehicle, and the first batch has already sold out across the country. The second batch of Mercedes EQC electric SUVs will arrive in September 2021, according to the manufacturer. It will compete with the Jaguar I-Pace and the forthcoming Audi e-tron this time around.
The Mercedes EQC is more powerful than both of its arch competitors. Two asynchronous motors deliver a combined output of 408bhp and 765Nm of torque to the premium electric SUV. On a full charge, the EQC’s 85kWh lithium-ion battery pack provides a range of 400km (WLTP-certified). It takes 21 hours to fully charge its battery using a regular power outlet, and 10 hours using the company’s 7.5kW wallbox charger. It can also be charged in 90 minutes using a 50kW DC fast charger. Owners of Mercedes EQC vehicles have access to over 100 EQ charging stations in 48 locations.
The Jaguar I-Pace was introduced in March 2021 and is available in three versions (S, SE, and HSE) with prices ranging from Rs 1.05 crore to Rs 1.12 crore. The electric SUV is powered by two synchronous permanent magnet electric motors and a 90kWh lithium-ion battery. Its total power and torque outputs are 394bhp and 396Nm, respectively.
The Audi e-tron will be available in two body types (SUV and Sportback), as well as three different versions (50, 55 and 55 Sportback). The e-tron 55 and Sportback 55 will feature a 95kWh battery with a combined power output of 402bhp and 664Nm. The e-tron 50 will be powered by a 71kWh battery that produces 308bhp and 540Nm of torque.