- Mercedes-Benz launched the EQS SUV, its second locally made electric vehicle in India, with more than 50 orders already placed.
- The reintroduction of road taxes on EVs in Delhi has temporarily disrupted purchasing decisions.
Mercedes-Benz has reinforced its commitment to India's electric vehicle (EV) market with the launch of its second locally made electric vehicle, the EQS SUV. This marks India as the only market outside the US where Mercedes assembles its flagship electric vehicle, highlighting the country’s strategic importance.
The German luxury carmaker remains optimistic about long-term demand despite hurdles like inconsistent EV policies and varying road tax rates across states, which have impacted sales.
“The locally produced EQS sedan has been well-received, and we expect this second locally assembled model to follow suit,” said Santosh Iyer, Managing Director and CEO of Mercedes-Benz India.
Mercedes’ EQS sedan, launched earlier, was India’s first locally assembled electric sedan, with over 500 units sold within 18 months. Iyer noted, “Remember, these cars are ₹1.6 crore-plus EVs.”
The EQS SUV, priced at over ₹2.25 crore, has already seen strong demand, with more than 50 orders placed.
“We are sure within a couple of weeks we will be sold out for the year as well, crossing the three-digit mark,” Iyer said.
While road tax inconsistencies, such as the reintroduction of EV taxes in Delhi, pose short-term challenges, Iyer is optimistic about the future.
“There is a clear push by the government, and as responsible corporate citizens, we are introducing more car lines,” he added.
Mercedes-Benz continues to invest in India’s green energy transition, as the country sources 43% of its energy from non-fossil fuel sources, further strengthening the outlook for EVs.
Edited by Harshajit Sarmah
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