The German automotive marque had originally intended to show its smallest electric crossover SUV on the lineup – the EQA – later this year, but the reveal is now officially delayed until spring 2021 or later. The important thing to note is that the pandemic is not the only cause.
Mercedes-Benz had planned to launch production at its factory in Hambach, France, where it used to produce Smart-badged compacts. However, that factory is now officially on sale with Ineos mentioned as one of the potential buyers. This means that the EQA and EQB models will now have to be produced in Rastatt, Germany, and the local factory needs a major upgrade for that.
It is rumored that the EQA is coming with a choice between FWD and AWD, as well as a performance-heavy AMG spec that would match the newest GLA 45 S in terms of output (421 hp / 314 kW).
Aside from the Mercedes-Benz EQA and EQB, the EQS full-size liftback should also celebrate its market debut next year. It will be followed by the EQE sedan a year after that and the EQG SUV later still.