The wireless updates of the most modern vehicles have made life easier for brands, which with them can correct errors and also expand or update the functions of their models. That connectivity, however, has become a double-edged sword because it makes it possible for some automakers to restrict access to certain features. Now, Subscription equipment has reached another level: you already have to pay for a Mercedes EQ to be more powerful.
Months after BMW offered a subscription for certain options (such as a heated steering wheel or heated seats), Mercedes has taken this to a whole new level: In the United States, drivers who own a model in the EQ family, the designation used by the brand for its electric cars, will have to pay if they want to unlock the full potential of their engine. Specifically, 1,200 dollars (1,166 euros) plus taxes… per year.
Increase horsepower and torque
In mercedes websiteamong their subscription services, there is one under the title ‘Acceleration Increase’: as they explain, it will be available soon and its objective is through increase the torque and the maximum power “of your Mercedes EQ”. An option applicable to the following models:
- Mercedes EQE 350 4MATIC: It goes from 288 to 349 hp and does 0 to 100 km/h in 5.1 seconds instead of 6.
- Mercedes EQE SUV 350 4MATIC: It increases power just the same, but does 0-62mph in 5.2 seconds instead of 6.2.
- Mercedes EQS 450 4MATIC: It goes from 355 to 443 hp and does 0 to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds instead of 5.3.
- Mercedes EQS SUV 4MATIC: It increases power just the same, but does 0-62mph in 4.9 seconds instead of 5.8.
According to Mercedes, paying this annual fee implies unlocking the ‘Dynamic’ driving mode as well as an increase in maximum power (between 20 and 24%, depending on the original factory figure), of engine torque and, at the same time, of general performance: in this way, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h improves between 0.8 and 0.9 seconds. It is also assumed that the general characteristics of electric motors also change.
equipment by subscription
Subscriptions are somewhat understandable for certain components and services that require constant maintenance. They serve, at the same time, to reduce vehicle manufacturing costs and minimize obsolescence: The problem comes when it becomes a tool for the model in question to continue generating income throughout its useful life… due to options that are already installed.
The added power and performance provided by the Mercedes option is something the EQs are already capable of when they leave the factory: the car already has everything necessary, so the brand does not have to do anything to make it faster or more powerful.
remains to be seen cHow popular will they be? This type of subscription: Is anyone really going to pay $1,200 a year ($100 a month) to reduce the time it takes their electric vehicle to do 0 to 100 km/h by one second? Is it worth it for a 20-24% increase in potency? Who knows, maybe Mercedes will end up proving that doubts are misplaced and that drivers won’t mind paying extra for a bit more performance.
