Mercedes-AMG to launch first EV model in 2021

Mercedes-AMG has revealed that it will launch its first pure-electric model later in 2021.

Refusing to confirm which electric vehicle will get the full AMG treatment, Benz's performance division said it would be based on Mercedes' dedicated EVA platform which has been specifically created for battery-powered cars.

Since the 2021 Mercedes-Benz EQS is EVA-based and no other electric cars sitting on the platform will be launched this year, it's almost certain the Affalterbach-based performance division is referring to the pure-electric limo.

Mercedes-Benz has already revealed that the luxurious EQS will be available in a sportier AMG Line trim, but it now looks likely a more powerful full-fat AMG will come too.

When it arrives, the 2021 Mercedes-AMG EQS will sport a specific radiator grille with vertical louvres to pay tribute to its trademark Panamericana grille.

The quicker electric car will also gain an AMG-specific front splitter, side sill extension and a new rear spoiler.

Finally, there will be a set of AMG wheels that will either be aerodynamically enhanced or a set of rims that reference its heritage.

Inside, there's AMG seats and AMG-specific functions and displays for the MBUX infotainment system. A sportier steering wheel will also be included as part of the cabin upgrades.

There's no word on power or torque, but AMG says it will come with two electric motors to provide all-wheel drive.

Performance is claimed to be in line with current 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbo AMG models with a 0-100km/h sprint of well under 4.0 seconds and a top speed of 250km/h.

Those figures are 0.5sec and 50km/h faster than the quoted figures for the launch EQS, suggesting a huge leap in power and torque for the high-performance flagship.

Featuring a large 400-volt lithium-ion battery that gets upgraded electronics to deploy its power quicker for longer sustained periods, the AMG EQS also gets upgraded AMG Ride Control+ air suspension that has been recalibrated for more enthusiastic driving.

Same goes for the EQS' braking system that now is said to blend electric recuperation with full hydraulics for better brake feel.

Finally, AMG's acoustic engineers have been busy giving its first battery-powered performance car an appropriate soundtrack.

In comes extra hardware like a new speaker, resonator and sound generator all designed to add to the excitement of driving the zero-emissions Mercedes-AMG quickly.

There's no word on when and where AMG plans to launch its high-performance version of the EQS, but it's expected to be unveiled in the second half of 2021 with sales beginning before the end of the year.