Mercedes-Benz has released several photos of electric EQC crossovers driving in the Iberian peninsula for their series of summer tests. After finishing the winter tests earlier this year the prototypes are now being put through drills in intense temperatures up to 122 degrees Fahrenheit.

Mercedes-Benz EQC

“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 at minus 35 degrees C, we are confident that the heat trials will confirm that we are well on schedule for the start of series production.”

Mercedes-Benz EQC

In cold temperatures, electric cars generally see their driving range shorten, but there’s much more at risk in extremely hot temps. Exposure to extreme heat carries the risk of battery damage. During its summer tests, the engineers will test how well the battery’s cooling circuit can cope with the high temperatures and high power requirements.

The Mercedes-Benz EQC crossover is expected to arrive by 2020.

Source: Mercedes-Benz