Mercedes is continuing with the expansion of its electric vehicle (EV) line-up with the introduction of the EQB, a seven-seat SUV set to arrive in 2022.

Slotting in between the EQA and EQC, the EQB is based on the existing Mercedes GLB and shares its boxy styling and seven-seat layout.

The new model will rival electric SUVs such as the recently launched Audi Q4 e-tron and VW ID4.

A variety of front- and all-wheel-drive models will be offered along with choice of battery capacities, when the car arrives in the UK next year.

So far, only the EQB 350 4Matic has been detailed. It serves up 292PS from a twin motor setup and provides a range of 260 miles from a 66kWh battery. Charging can be carried out at up to 100kW, allowing a 10%-80% charge time in 30 minutes

Mercedes says a long-range version of the EQB, with a larger battery, will also be available.

“With the all new EQB we have created an iconic electric SUV that takes the heritage of our boxy off-road vehicles and transforms this into the future. We combine the significant boxy silhouette with futuristic elements such as the black-panel front to create the extraordinary look of the vehicle”, says Gorden Wagener, chief design officer of Daimler Group.

The new EQB has a length of 4.68, and a width of 1.83m. With the third row of seats folded, it offers a load space of 465 litres.

Production of the EQB will commence in 2021, with the first cars expected to arrive in the UK in 2022. Prices and specifications will be announced towards the end of the year, when the new model goes on sale.