Mercedes EV Models to Get Upgrades for More Range
Giancarlo Perlas February 3, 2023
Some Mercedes EV units in the US are about to receive significant upgrades to improve their electric range. This involves fitting them with a decoupling unit and heat pump similar to those found in their European counterparts.
At present, there are four full-electric models sold by Mercedes-Benz USA, namely the EQB SUV, EQE Sedan, EQS Sedan, and EQS SUV. Among them, Autocar confirms that the EQS Sedan, EQE Sedan, and EQS SUV are the ones that will adopt the said tech enhancements.
Here is a quick look at what the two new updates offer for certain Mercedes EV models:
Disconnect Unit (DCU)
The Disconnect Unit (DCU) is an equipment found on the dual motor, all-wheel-drive version of the EQE SUV in Europe. It works by decoupling the front motor to enable a rear-wheel drive system under certain conditions and without driver intervention. The idling of the front motor and gearbox aims to mitigate drag losses resulting in more range.
There’s no official information yet as to when the new feature will be rolled to Mercedes EVs in the US. However, based on the source, the most likely target is in July this year.
Intelligent Thermal Management (ITM)
The European version of the EQE SUV is also already fitted with Intelligent Thermal Management (ITM). This tech that will trickle down to the mentioned US Mercedes EVs is designed to replace the usual resistive heater.
The new system operates to boost efficiency during cooler temperatures. This likewise translates to more range upon its application.
