Well, folks, it’s time to talk about the new kids on the block in the electric car world, the Mercedes-Benz EQA, EQB and EQS. These electric cars are certainly making a statement with their sleek and stylish designs, cutting-edge technology and, of course, the all-important zero-emissions driving experience.
But, let’s be honest, as much as we all want to embrace the electric revolution and do our bit for the planet, there are a few challenges when it comes to owning an electric car, especially here in South Africa. I’ve just spent eight days with Merc’s EQ range and let me tell you, it wasn’t easy keeping them powered up because well, it’s that horrible ‘L word’, isn’t it?
I refer to load shedding, obviously. That’s the term used to describe the intentional shutdown of electricity in certain areas, because the power grid can’t handle the demand. We’ll that’s the internationally recognised meaning in any case. In South Africa it is a pandemic of electrical proportion brought upon many factors, including the mismanagement of resources.
So, imagine this, you’ve just gotten home from a long day at work, and are looking forward to charging your brand new EQS because tomorrow you’re hitting the road for a scenic drive. But, wait a minute, the lights have gone out and you can’t charge your car. Or worse yet, you’re meant to film in Elgin, some 120km away – as was my case. Now consider that, on ‘wall power’ it might take you a day and a half to fully charge, and that when your load shedding period ends, the charger sometimes needs to be physically restarted – at least that was my experience more than once.
If I were an optimist I’d say hey, let’s not be too downbeat about it all. Let’s look at the bright side. Load shedding gives us an opportunity to get back to basics and remember what life was like before we were all hooked on technology. You can spend some quality time with your family, play a board game, read a book or even go for a walk. It’s a chance to disconnect and recharge (pun intended). But no, this is 2023, and it’s actually just a pain in the arse. But I have some notes. If you’re ready to adopt that EV lifestyle, do your research. Accept that range anxiety will be a factor, and plan accordingly. Find your nearest chargers and absolutely, definitely fit a fast charger on your premises. After that, you’re mostly golden.
I have to say, despite the challenges, I think these electric cars from Mercedes-Benz are well worth considering, especially if you’re looking for a stylish and sustainable mode of transport. They’re not cheap, but then these are luxury cars after all. Still, the outlook on ‘alt fuel’ cars feels rosy, with a slew of more affordable electrified options on its way. Hydrogen has reentered conversation as a viable option and South Africa’s charging network is growing steadily. There’s much more to consider here, such as the fact that EVs aren’t really that green when you consider how its resources are mined, gathered and so on. Perhaps the answer isn’t ‘alt fuel’, and rather ‘all fuels’. But perhaps that’s a topic for another time.
*Mercedes-Benz EQ range filmed at Devonbosch Estate, Stellenbosch