What we would have received in April this year will arrive next month. What is it? The Mercedes-Benz EQC. Yes, the all-electric SUV now has a confirmed launch date, and it is October 8, 2020. Obviously, the EQC arrives in India via the CBU (Completely Built Unit) route. Additionally, it boasts technology which costs way more than conventionally-packed vehicles. Put both those facts together, and the result is an eye-watering price tag.

The highlight of any EV (Electric Vehicle) is its powertrain. The EQC has two electric motors, one for each axle. Since they work in tandem, the duo gives birth to an electric all-wheel-drive system. Mercedes-Benz claims that put together, the motors produce a total output of 402bhp/760Nm. That’s enough for a 0-100kmph sprint time of 5.1 seconds and an electronically-governed top speed of 180kmph. Don’t find those figures impressive? Well, get this – the EQC weighs nearly 2.5 tonnes. The battery alone weighs 650kg.

Speaking of which, it has an 80 kWh capacity. That, as per NEDC (New European Driving Cycle), is enough for a range of over 450km on a single charge. In India, that figure will be different as ARAI (Automotive Research Association of India) conducts mileage tests differently. For charging the EQC via a regular socket, Mercedes-Benz provides a 7.4 kW charger. That’s the slowest way of juicing-up the battery. Another way is by using the Mercedes-Benz Wallbox. Based on the pertaining conditions, it can replenish the battery three times faster than a domestic power socket. Of course, the EV is compatible with rapid charging. The EQC can take DC feeds of up to 110 kW, using which it can recharge the battery from 10 to 80 per cent in about 40 minutes.

Features? As you’d expect, the list is quite extensive. It includes heated front seats, MBUX infotainment system, 19-inch alloy wheels, 64-colour ambient lighting and Active Park Assist with reversing camera. Other gizmos on offer include two 10.25-inch displays (one each of the instrument cluster and infotainment purposes), Multibeam LED headlights and Keyless-Go, which incorporates hands-free access, automatic powered boot closing, keyless entry and keyless start.

By the time it goes on sale in India, the Mercedes-Benz EQC will not have any direct rivals. That said, Audi India is prepping to introduce the e-tron, and the Jaguar will bring the I-Pace on our shores. Until then, the wealthy have the easiest decision to make when looking for a luxurious, feature-rich, zero-emissions SUV.