The electric vehicle market has matured significantly in recent years, effectively dispelling concerns about range anxiety. However, the question remains: How often do we truly put these vehicles to the test on long–distance journeys or vacations? To answer this, we decided to embark on a road trip with the Mercedes EQA, an all electric SUV. Our destination? Goa for a bit of relaxation and exploring the quieter parts. With this EV charged to 88 per cent, offering an estimated range of 450 km, we were eager to see if this electric vehicle could truly deliver on both performance and practicality. A recent addition to the Mercedes lineup had already impressed me during a brief test drive in Jaipur. However, the limited time and rainy conditions didn’t allow for a thorough evaluation. A road trip to Goa offered the perfect opportunity to truly assess the car’s capabilities.
While electric vehicle infrastructure has improved significantly, long–distance travel still requires careful planning. Fortunately, the relatively short distance between Pune and Goa (approximately 450 km) meant the car could potentially complete the journey on a single charge.
With a planned stopover in Kolhapur, I set off from Pune, eager to experience the unique qualities (or quirks) of an electric road trip. The absence of engine noise and vibrations created a serene environment, allowing me to fully immerse myself in music or a podcast. Also, the only appropriate band you would have to listen to in an EV is AC/DC. The Burmester surround sound system provided a premium audio experience, further enhancing the journey. The augmented reality maps also proved invaluable, offering clear directions and making navigation a breeze. After a comfortable 250-km journey, I arrived at a Mercedes Benz service centre conveniently located on the highway. Taking advantage of the available EV charger, I decided to top up the car’s battery while enjoying a quick snack. The service centre staff graciously offered me a complimentary coffee, demonstrating their hospitality. Fully charged and ready to continue the journey, the car displayed a range of 526 km. As the sun began to set, the impressive headlights illuminated the road ahead. The innovative light bar and projector headlamps provided excellent visibility, even in challenging conditions like the foggy stretches of the Western Ghats.
After a scenic drive, I arrived at the Goa Institute of Management my halt for the night and reached in time for dinner. Anticipating a day of exploration with my boss, Pablo, I was eager to experience the hidden gems of Goa beyond the typical tourist hotspots.
Our first stop the next morning was at Pablo’s home in Goa, where I was instantly captivated by the idyllic lifestyle he had chosen. Living in Goa seemed like a wise decision, perfectly complementing the adventure we were about to embark on. Joined by Pablo and Amita, our talented photographer, we headed to Porvorim to visit Sensible Earth—a community-driven initiative focused on environmental sustainability and local empowerment. This stop provided us with valuable insights into sustainable practices and the importance of community development, setting the tone for the rest of our journey.
From Porvorim, we set off on a ferry ride to Dewar Island, where a striking electric blue car quickly became the centre of attention. As we boarded, several onlookers couldn’t help but notice the distinctive green number plate on the sleek Mercedes, sparking curiosity among fellow passengers. Many approached us, intrigued, and asked if it was indeed an electric Mercedes, their interest piqued by this rare sight.
We paused our journey to savour a delightful lunch at a local Goan home. The traditional Goan cuisine was a culinary delight, featuring flavorful fish cutlets, prawn curry, and the iconic Goan poi. The prawn curry, with its unique addition of okra, was an interesting comb and gave us an insight into what the actual locals eat. After our culinary adventure, we explored the architectural gems of Old Goa. We discovered a hidden spot away from the tourist crowds, where rustic charm and historical significance intertwined. Roaming through this tranquil setting in our electric car felt like travelling through time.
We continued our exploration by visiting some of the iconic churches in Old Goa. The unique architecture of these structures, unlike any other found in India, captivated us. We were awestruck by the intricate details and historical significance of these architectural marvels. After exploring various locations in Goa, we decided to recharge the EQA, which had dropped to 30 per cent. The car’s battery life was significantly impacted by the continuous use of the air conditioner and the Harman Kardon surround sound system. We located the nearest charging station at the Mercedes-Benz dealership in Goa, one of the most scenic locations for a dealership. The dealership’s location offered a breathtaking view of the Mandovi River while the car charged.
As the car recharged, Pablo took a moment to reflect on his experience behind the wheel of the Mercedes Benz EQA. For him, driving the EV was nothing short of delightful. The car delivered a smooth and comfortable ride, effortlessly gliding over various terrains with impressive ride quality. Any concerns about range were quickly dispelled, thanks to the EQA’s ample 450 km range, which ensured that he never had to worry about running low on power. Pablo appreciated how the EQA complemented the tranquil and picturesque location and he will definitely be asking Mercedes Benz India to send him the car for a longer period in Goa to drive around. So from historic churches and serene islands to sprawling plateaus and scenic ferry rides we really covered a lot during our time here. The car’s silent operation and zero emissions made it an ideal companion for exploring these pristine locations. Its quiet presence allowed him to fully immerse in the natural beauty and cultural richness of each spot, without the disruptive noise or pollution that often accompanies traditional vehicles.
As the sun began to set, Pablo and I headed to a scenic plateau to capture the final moments of the day. We took advantage of the opportunity to photograph the EQA and capture some content for our social media pages. After dropping Pablo off, I embarked on the return journey to Pune. The drive back provided time for reflection on the progress made in electric vehicle technology. The EQA’s performance, comfort, and range made it a delightful companion for this road trip. It’s a testament to the advancements in electric vehicles and the possibilities they offer for modern–day travel. As electric vehicle ranges continue to improve, we can anticipate even more exciting road trip adventures in the future.
