Positioned as the car for technoids, Mercedes-Benz AMG brings to the table its second pure electric model — AMG EQS 53 4MATIC. The car comes at a time when luxury and performance EVs are making their presence felt in the Indian market.

To start with, the car will be imported through the CBU route and will cost Rs 2.45 crore ex-showroom (Mumbai). The incoming model is the first all-electric AMG production model to be based on Mercedes EQ architecture. As it gets AMG badging, it has been designed and engineered for dynamic driver-centric and sporty handling. Mercedes-Benz claims it is capable of doing the 0-100kmph sprint in just 3.4 seconds.

“We are charting an aggressive EV roadmap for the Indian market and the AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ is the first all-electric luxury performance saloon, kick-starting our EV offensive,” said Martin Schwenk, Managing Director and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India during the elaborate Mumbai launch.

The EQS 53 4MATIC+ is an all-wheel drive car that’s equipped 107.8kWh battery that powers two 400-volt electric motors on each axle. Power is routed through the AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system.

The driving characteristics of the Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ can be altered by the driver at the touch of a button, to suit the situation or personal preferences. This includes the four AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes "Comfort", "Sport", "Sport+" and "Individual". The driving modes cover a wide spectrum, from high comfort to pronounced sportiness.

Two simulated exhaust notes are part of this AMG model's visceral appeal in otherwise a very quiet car. The driver can choose ‘Silver Waves’ or ‘Vivid Plus’ for aural entertainment when the throttle is pushed. Top speed of the standard EQS 53 tops out at 220kmph, while the Dynamic Plus offers top speed of 250kmph.

Energy recuperation output during braking is up to 300 kW and the driver can adjust the level of recuperation in three stages via switches on the steering wheel.

In terms of charging infrastructure for the benefit of its customers having Mercedes-Benz electric cars, the German brand is creating the largest fast-charging network across the country with 60 kW super-fast DC chargers and 180 kW ultra-fast DC chargers. On a single charge the Mercedes claim that the car can offer a driving range is 529–586 kms.

AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ will compete with the likes of Porsche Taycan Turbo S and the Audi RS e-tron GT.

In its build, there are 80kgs worth of recycled and eco-friendly materials –- fishing nets have become floor mats and the seat cover is made out of recycled water bottles.

Key features include hyperscreen package with augmented reality head-up display; Nappa leather upholstery; Burmester surround sound system; Parking package with Active Parking Assist and 360° camera. Driving Assistance Package Plus; AMG black panel radiator grille with hot-stamped vertical struts in chrome; AMG front bumper painted in body colour; AMG side skirts; AMG rear apron painted in vehicle colour with diffuser-style inserts; AMG spoiler lip on the boot lid; AMG Steering wheel, floor mats and specific interior detailing.

The AMG-badged model’s pricing makes it dearer by Rs 88 lakh over the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Rs 1.46 crore more than the EQC. The EQC was Mercedes’ first electric car model that was launched in 2020.