Mercedes-Benz EQE

Importing a used Mercedes-Benz EQE from the USA

The Mercedes-Benz EQE is the electric counterpart to the E-Class — a full-size luxury sedan built on the brand's dedicated EVA2 electric platform, sitting below the flagship EQS. It combines a slippery one-bow silhouette, a genuinely long range, and the option of Mercedes's vast Hyperscreen dashboard. In the United States it has a solid presence, and early lease returns and trade-ins now feed a growing used market. For a European importer the EQE is a compelling luxury EV — and because Mercedes builds it in Germany, the customs situation is worth understanding precisely.

USCar Trader is an independent broker and intermediary for used vehicles only. We do not hold stock, add margin, or represent Mercedes-Benz. Our role is to source, verify, and import the exact EQE you select.

Generations at a glance

The EQE sedan arrived for the 2023 model year in the US and represents a single current generation. Because it is recent, used cars differ chiefly by variant and equipment rather than facelift. The line spans efficient single-motor rear-drive versions through dual-motor 4MATIC models to the high-performance Mercedes-AMG EQE. A separate EQE SUV exists on the same platform; the sedan is the aerodynamic, long-range fastback covered here.

Powertrain lineup

The EQE is fully electric, drawing from a battery of around 90 kWh usable (roughly 96 kWh gross). US variants included the rear-drive EQE 350+ with about 288 hp, the dual-motor EQE 350 4MATIC and EQE 500 4MATIC with progressively more power, and the AMG EQE, which pushes well beyond 600 hp in Dynamic Plus form. Power reaches the wheels through single-speed reduction gearing per axle. A standout feature is the available rear-axle steering, offering up to 10 degrees on some cars, which shrinks the turning circle of this large sedan to something remarkably city-friendly.

Trims in the US market

The EQE sedan is a four-door fastback. US equipment lines centre on Premium, Exclusive, and Pinnacle packages, layering in features such as the 56-inch MBUX Hyperscreen, Burmester surround sound, augmented-reality navigation, heated and ventilated seats, and advanced driver assistance. The AMG models add sport styling, adaptive air suspension tuning, and a more aggressive powertrain.

The used market stateside

Used EQE sedans in the US are predominantly 2023 and 2024 cars, frequently well-optioned and with low to moderate mileage, since many were leased by premium buyers. Inventory is deepest in coastal and metropolitan markets. As with any used EV, verify battery state of health, charging history, and that software updates and any recalls have been completed.

Who should import one

The EQE suits the buyer who wants a genuinely luxurious, long-range electric sedan with cutting-edge cabin technology and the refinement of a full-size Mercedes. It appeals to drivers stepping from a combustion E-Class or S-Class into electric power, and to anyone prioritising quiet comfort, range, and manoeuvrability over sporting pretence.

Key specifications

How reliable is it?

As a newer model the EQE has a limited but generally sound track record, sharing much with the EQS. Owner reports and service bulletins point to occasional MBUX and Hyperscreen software glitches, the odd 12-volt battery issue common to modern EVs, and a small number of high-voltage and charging-related recalls that you should confirm are closed. The complex air suspension on higher trims and the rear-axle steering add capability but also more components to maintain, so verify they operate smoothly. Tyre wear can be significant given the car's weight and performance. Overall EQE common problems tend to be electronic and software-related rather than mechanical.

What US models do differently

US EQE sedans use a CCS1 charge port, so European DC and AC charging needs a CCS1-to-CCS2 adapter or planning. Lighting follows US amber/red conventions, instruments read in miles, and MBUX navigation data is US-specific. The underlying hardware matches European cars closely, which helps servicing, but charging and software region settings should be checked before purchase.

Seven steps to your import

The sequence is clear: choose and inspect the specific EQE, verify the VIN and plant of manufacture, pay through secure escrow, arrange direct ocean freight to a German port, clear customs on arrival, present the car for TUEV individual approval (Einzelabnahme), and register locally. USCar Trader coordinates every stage as your broker.

Customs, taxes and costs explained

Remember: no origin proof, no 0% duty – and 19% German import VAT is due on every import.

Two charges apply separately. The EU import duty first: since 1 July 2026, Regulations (EU) 2026/1455 and 2026/1461 allow a 0% rate for vehicles of provable US origin shipped directly, valid until 31 December 2029. The EQE sedan is built in Germany, so it generally will not meet the US-origin test, and the standard passenger-car duty (10%) is the realistic expectation — the VIN and plant code decide it, and nothing is guaranteed. Second, the 19% German import VAT (Einfuhrumsatzsteuer) always applies to the customs value regardless of duty. We quote both separately, with no margin.

German TÜV and registration

Typical work includes adapting the headlights to European beam and markings, confirming a rear fog lamp, converting the instrument display to kilometres or documenting it, and verifying charging compatibility and region settings. As an EV there is no emissions test. After the TUEV Einzelabnahme and customs clearance, you register at your local Zulassungsstelle.

The buyer checklist

Confirm these before buying: 1) decode the VIN for plant and specification; 2) pull a Carfax or AutoCheck history for accidents and title status; 3) verify battery state of health and DC charging behaviour; 4) confirm all recalls and software updates are closed; 5) check for a clean, non-salvage title; 6) confirm the charge port type and cables; 7) test the Hyperscreen, air suspension, rear-axle steering, and driver-assist systems.

Questions and answers

Will a Mercedes-Benz EQE qualify for 0% EU import duty?

Generally not. The EQE sedan is built in Germany, so it usually fails the US-origin test and the standard 10% duty applies. The VIN and plant code are decisive; nothing is guaranteed.

Does the 19% import VAT always apply?

Yes. The German import VAT of 19% is charged on the customs value in every case, independent of the duty outcome.

Can a US EQE charge in Europe?

Yes, with an adapter. US cars use a CCS1 port and need a CCS1-to-CCS2 adapter for European DC and AC charging.

How reliable is the EQE?

Broadly sound but software-heavy. Most reported issues are electronic; confirm all recalls and MBUX updates are completed.

What range does it offer?

Strong for the class thanks to its efficient EVA2 platform, though real-world figures vary with trim, wheels, and driving style.

What mileage should I expect?

Most used EQE sedans are 2023-2024 cars with low to moderate mileage and remaining battery warranty, as many were leased.

Does USCar Trader sell me the car?

No. We are an independent broker. You buy the car in the US; we source, verify, and import it without a margin.

Is German registration difficult?

Not with correct paperwork. After a passed TUEV Einzelabnahme and customs clearance, registration proceeds normally.

To begin, browse Mercedes-Benz in the Carhub, compare the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV, the flagship Mercedes-Benz EQS, and the compact Mercedes-Benz EQB, or view current EQE listings.