The charging method and speed can significantly impact the energy costs of electric vehicles. On a winter trip, the energy costs of the new E-series plug-in hybrid and the EQE all-electric car were surprisingly the same. The test drive involved Mercedes-Benz’s new E-Class 300e plug-in hybrid, and the Mercedes-EQ EQE 500 4Matic served as a fully electric control.
The EQE’s luggage compartment and rear passenger spaces are more spacious compared to E-Mersu. The E-series plug-in hybrid does not agree to use only the electric motor in slightly colder temperatures. The electrical life of the car varies in winter depending on the temperature. The average fuel consumption of the E series plug-in hybrid was only 3.7 liters per 100 kilometers.
The test focused on the amount of electricity consumed on a long trip and the price of fast charging electricity needed on the trip, which is often expensive, in relation to the ability to receive the charge. The Mercedes-Benz E 300e 4Matic plug-in hybrid is equipped with the ability to temporarily receive 55 kilowatt fast charging in summer conditions.
In the winter test drive, the car was only able to receive 22 kilowatts of power, even at its best, because it was quite cold and the battery cannot be preheated. This was a disappointment that increased fuel costs, but an essential thing in terms of making a winter vacation trip.
The Mercedes-EQ EQE 500 4Matic, the emphasis was on making the journey in winter weather, not the slow and cheapest possible charging. However, downloads were planned, also with price in mind. This also required frequent use of the battery preheating function. In EQE, battery preheating works automatically after the charging station programmed for navigation, according to the prevailing temperature of the battery.
