Following successful winter trials, the EQC is required to absolve an extensive test programme in the burning summer heat. Particular attention is given to aspects, which are very demanding for electric cars, such as air-conditioning and charging, as well as cooling the battery, drive system and control units in extreme heat. Naturally classical criteria such as driving dynamics and ride comfort are also subjected to further, stringent tests.

"With the finishing straight in sight, we are now able to absolve another extremely demanding test programme with our pre-series vehicles," says Michael Kelz, Chief Engineer for the EQC. "But after successfully completed endurance tests in winter, we are confident that the heat trials will confirm that we are well on schedule for the start of series production."

Before a new product goes into production, the complete vehicle must reach a maturity level set by Mercedes-Benz. This takes place in several stages. Step one is digital preliminary design and simulation. It is followed by validation, either of individual components on dynamometers or in test vehicles. This tests and validates, for example, the durability of a powertrain connection or of individual axle parts.