Charging Ahead

There's finally an electric Mercedes you can buy

- VIPUL PUNETHA

If you're not offering an electric vehicle, someone else surely is. This appears to automotive brands. And if they do have an electric vehicle in their lineup, they'll enthusiastically highlight all its features and environmental advantages. So, when you're Mercedes and you're determined to sell an electric vehicle, what's your game plan?

The introduction of the EQ brand was a cautious move, which led Mercedes to electrify their best-selling model. The EQC however encountered several roadblocks - from sacrificing space to an unconventional appearance that garnered curious glances every time it left an upscale apartment complex. Recognizing this, Mercedes' product planners responded with the more appealing EQB, though it remained exclusive in availability and couldn't quite validate its high 80-lakh price tag, partly due to the 'B' in its model name.

Mercedes, having reached their breaking point, made a bold move to capture everyone's attention. How, you may wonder? Well, they suspended a car from the ceiling of a packed auditorium. Yes, you read that right. In addition to unveiling an exceptional product; the EQS sedan, they also announced that this car would be assembled in India, resulting in an enticing price point. This strategic manoeuvre garnered praise from many, but Mercedes remains driven to further expand its EQ presence.

Introducing the EQE SUV- and I emphasize 'SUV' because there's also a sedan bearing the same name. It might seem a tad confusing, but what isn't perplexing is Mercedes' deliberate choice of this product to boost their sales figures. Let me clarify.