Mercedes-Benz Cars South Africa (MBSA) is relentless in its onslaught to gain traction in the South African electric vehicle market with the launch of yet another fully electric vehicle locally.
The EQE is the fifth Mercedes-EQ model to be launched in South Africa following the successful introduction of the EQA, EQB, EQC and EQS last year.
Just a few months after the South African launch of the EQS, the German manufacturer is already presenting the next Mercedes-EQ model based on the electric architecture developed specifically for electric vehicles, the new EQE.
The EQE is a sporty business saloon offering all the essential functions of the EQS in a slightly more compact format.
At market launch, the local model range initially comprises two variants: the EQE 350+ with 215 kW and 565 Nm, as well as the Mercedes-AMG EQE 43 4MATIC with 350 kW and 858 Nm. With a WLTP driving range of up to 645 km, the EQE offers customers the best of all worlds, reconciling innovation, emotion and sustainability. The AMG will be able to sustain a distance of 535 km.
The EQE 350+ with rear wheel drive, will be able to reach 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds while the Mercedes-AMG version with power going to the front as well as the back wheels, will reach it in only 4.2 seconds.
More details on the local Mercedes-EQE range will be announced later this month. Later this year, Mercedes-Benz Cars South Africa will also introduce the EQE SUV and EQS SUV, bringing the local battery EV model range to a total of seven, the most extensive and varied offered by any manufacturer.
The EQE 350+ will be available in South Africa at an estimated price of R1,800,000 and the Mercedes-AMG EQE 43 4MATIC at an estimated price of R2,200,000. This includes a PremiumDrive Platinum 5-year/100,000 km maintenance plan and a 10-year battery warranty. Final pricing will be confirmed later.
The South African motor industry has lost one of its longstanding business figures following the passing of Jebb McIntosh, the group chief executive of Combined Motor Holdings (CMH), on Monday, 2 November 2026.
“South Africa’s automotive industry has been AGOA’s largest user, but for the sector the preference has already been largely overridden by the 25% Section 232 tariffs applied on vehicles and components. Losing AGOA adds a further cost to an industry that has already absorbed a significant shock.”
Foton has started building vehicles in South Africa, and the first overseas vehicle manufacturing base of BAIC Group is now in Gqeberha.
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