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Mercedes Unveils First Tesla Rival in $12 Billion Attack
Mercedes-Benz, the world's largest maker of luxury cars, is rolling out its first in a series of battery-powered models, adding to a growing array of high-end brands targeting Tesla Inc.
The Mercedes EQC crossover starts production in the first half of next year, part of a plan to develop its EQ electric line, Daimler AG Chief Executive Officer Dieter Zetsche told reporters in Stockholm at the model's world premiere. The company intended to invest 10 billion euros ($12 billion) in its electric-vehicle push but has ended up spending "more than that," he said Tuesday, without specifying figures.
"There is no alternative to betting on electric cars, and we're going all in," Zetsche said. "It is starting right now."
The car joins the Porsche Taycan, Audi E-tron and Jaguar I-Pace in putting pressure on Tesla as the California-based carmaker struggles to hit Model 3 production targets and earn profits. Mercedes plans to assemble the EQC at its factory in Bremen, where the automaker also makes its best-selling C-Class sedan. Daimler will build the car in China for the local market.
(Score: 2) by crafoo on Monday September 10 2018, @09:19PM (1 child)
I have a F150 with the sync system and it isn't too bad. The display crashes every other startup. It never ever reconnects over bluetooth. I have to go 2 menu levels down every time I get in the car to reconnect. USB cable connection isn't too bad though and it supports a few music apps on the phone.
I make fun of the USA automakers quite a bit but I've driven Ford mustangs and trucks for about 20 years now with no real complaints.
(Score: 2) by bobthecimmerian on Tuesday September 11 2018, @02:02AM
We have a Ford Flex (midsize SUV) with an early version of Sync without a display. Bluetooth for phones works okay with some phones and doesn't work at all with others, and voice control for music on the phone or on a USB flash drive works pretty well. So far the reliability is decent, but my parents' Flex died for good at under 150k miles, which is disappointing. Our other current vehicle is a Chrysler Pacifica minivan. 30k miles so far without a single mechanical problem, other than an entertainment system that hangs once every few weeks until you press the reset button (press and hold the volume and tune buttons for 15 seconds).