THE new EQV is the second Mercedes-Benz from their all-electric EQ brand.

With seating for up to seven people, the EQV combines practicality with all the advantages of an electric vehicle.

Thanks to its 90 kWh battery, the EQV’s electric motor can generate 204 hp, has a range of up to 213 miles and can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent in only 45 minutes using a rapid DC charger.

The EQV features the brand’s MBUX infotainment system with EQ-specific features.

These include important information such as charging current and energy flow.

Mercedes me Charge can also be accessed via MBUX which provides access to charging points across Europe without the need for multiple accounts and RFID cards.

Mercedes me Charge comprises multiple charging networks, including Polar, which is the UK’s largest charging network.

EQ-optimised navigation can also be set via MBUX, which bases its calculation on the fastest route taking into account the shortest charging time.

It also informs the driver of any nearby charging points.

The Sport model line comes as standard with 17-inch alloy wheels; LED Multibeam LED headlights; Driving Assistance package; MBUX with Navigation Plus; reversing camera; electric sliding doors; easy-pack tailgate; ambient lighting; and eight metre charging cable.

For another £2,230, Sport Premium adds 360° camera; Memory package; EQV Exterior Design package; Table package; and smartphone integration.

The range-topping Sport Premium Plus includes Burmester surround sound system; Airmatic suspension; and 18-inch wheels.

The new Mercedes-Benz EQV is now available to order with prices starting from £70,665 for the EQV 300 Sport, £72,895 for EQV 300 Sport Premium and £77,145 for the EQV 300 Sport Premium Plus.

First UK deliveries are expected to arrive in the autumn.

Big step forward for little MINI EV

MINI Plant Oxford has hit a significant milestone by building more than 11,000 MINI Electrics since production began prior to lockdown.

Premiered in July 2019, during the brand’s 60th anniversary year, MINI’s first all-electric model is fully integrated into the production process at Oxford, running down the same line as the combustion engine models.

Since its launch, more than 3,000 MINI Electric orders have been placed in the UK.

Car production stalls

UK car production declined -48.2 percent in June with 56,594 units made, according to figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Although post-shutdown production slowly ramped up in the month, strict social distancing measures and weak demand across global markets continued to restrict output.

June manufacturing for the domestic market was down by -63.8 per cent, reflecting the gradual easing of the UK’s retail lockdown.

Production for export also fell, by a substantial -45.0 per cent, although overseas orders accounted for nine out of 10 vehicles built as key global markets, including in the EU, China, US, South Korea and Japan, opened for business earlier than the UK.