96 MPG combined is not a typo. That’s the EPA’s official fuel economy rating for the 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQE 350 Plus, and the context is important. This isn’t gasoline MPG; it’s the MPG equivalent for this all-electric sedan. The EQE 350 Plus is not primarily for those squeezing every last mile from a gallon of fuel, but rather buyers wanting a luxury experience, the latest technology, and silent, instant torque. Efficiency is a bonus, a way to mitigate environmental impact and reduce running costs in a vehicle already filled with premium features.

City and highway performance

The EQE 350 Plus performs well in urban environments, reflected in its EPA city rating of 98 MPG equivalent. Regenerative braking captures kinetic energy during deceleration, feeding it back into the battery and maximizing efficiency in stop-and-go traffic. On the highway, the EQE 350 Plus achieves 94 MPG equivalent. While slightly lower than the city figure, it still represents substantial efficiency for a vehicle of this size and weight. The long-range cruising ability is a key selling point, allowing for road trips and extended commutes without constant range anxiety. Keep in mind that higher speeds on the highway require more energy, so maintaining consistent speeds within legal limits will yield the best results.

Annual fuel cost

You’ll be pleasantly surprised when reviewing the EPA’s estimate for annual fuel costs: just $800. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using the national average electricity prices. This is a significant advantage over similarly sized gasoline-powered luxury sedans, where fuel costs can easily exceed $3,000 annually. This helps justify the initial higher purchase price for buyers who plan to keep the vehicle for a long time.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a useful baseline, real-world efficiency will vary depending on driving habits, ambient temperature, and terrain. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and consistently high speeds will negatively impact range. Extreme cold weather can also reduce battery performance. Conversely, gentle acceleration, using regenerative braking optimally, and driving in moderate temperatures will extend the range beyond the EPA estimates. The EQE 350 Plus provides various driving modes that prioritize efficiency, allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle’s performance to their individual needs and conditions.

How it compares

The electric luxury sedan market is becoming increasingly competitive. The Tesla Model S Long Range, for example, boasts an EPA-estimated 120 MPG equivalent, showcasing Tesla’s focus on efficiency and range. The Cadillac LYRIQ, another option, achieves approximately 96 MPG equivalent, similar to the EQE 350 Plus, but delivers a different style and driving experience. Compared to gasoline-powered alternatives, the savings are even more stark. A comparable Mercedes-Benz E-Class, like the E 350, achieves around 25 MPG combined. This comparison is critical for buyers comparing the initial cost and long-term expenses.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take full advantage of the EQE’s regenerative braking system. Anticipate traffic flow and lift off the accelerator early, allowing the vehicle to slow down and capture energy without engaging the friction brakes unnecessarily. Become familiar with the various regenerative braking modes and select the one that best suits your driving style and conditions.

Precondition the battery before driving, especially during cold weather. This warms the battery pack while the vehicle is still plugged in, improving its efficiency and reducing range loss during the initial miles of your journey. The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) system allows you to schedule preconditioning remotely through the Mercedes me app.

Pay attention to tire pressure. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance and improve overall efficiency. Check the tire pressure regularly, especially when the temperature changes significantly. The recommended tire pressure is usually listed on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

Minimize aerodynamic drag by removing unnecessary items from the roof rack or cargo carrier. These accessories can significantly increase wind resistance, especially at highway speeds. A clean roofline translates directly into more efficient energy consumption.

Plan your routes strategically to minimize stop-and-go traffic and elevation changes. Use navigation systems with real-time traffic information to identify and avoid congested areas. Driving on relatively flat terrain will also help to reduce energy consumption.

If you’re looking for all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data, or want to see EQE MPG across all years, we have you covered.