All-electric Mercedes-Benz EQS to launch in India in 2022
At its second-annual press conference, Mercedes-Benz India has confirmed the launch of 10 new models for the Indian market, including its flagship electric vehicle, the Mercedes-Benz EQS (will be locally assembled), the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, as well as hinting at the introduction of the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series, the quickest series-production car at the Nurburgring. As for launch timelines, the S-Class Maybach will be the first on the cards, with a March launch, with the all-electric EQS expected towards the end of the year.ÂÂ
Globally, the Mercedes-Benz EQS is available in two variants â€" the single-motor, rear-wheel drive EQS 450+, and the dual-motor AWD EQS 580, of which we can expect the former here in India. What you're getting is the most aerodynamically efficient production car in the world with a 0.20Cd, an all-electric powertrain with 333PS/568Nm, driving range of 770km (WLTP), 0-100kmph performance at 6.2s, and 200kW charging capabilities for a full charge in 31 minutes. We've driven the Mercedes-Benz EQS and you can head here to read how it drives.
Another technical highlight is the MBUX Hyperscreen, a curved 56-inch "screen" stretching across the dash made up of smaller screens that serves as the EQS' central control system. Considering Mercedes-Benz India will locally assemble the EQS at its Chakan plant, expect competitive pricing (under the Rs 2 crore mark) for a car that's essentially an all-electric equivalent of the S-Class.ÂÂ
The company also took the opportunity to highlight its dominance in the Indian luxury vehicle market, once again leading the luxury segment, for the seventh year. The company posted sales of 11,242 units in 2021 (Jan-Dec), an increase of 42.5 per cent over the preceding year's figures. This despite over 3,000 orders yet to be fulfilled, a record in itself for the company. Top-sellers for Mercedes-Benz India continued to be the E-Class LWB and GLC, while new models like the A-Class limousine, GLA, GLC, GLE, GLS and S-Class contributed to the growth story.ÂÂ
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Mercedes-Benz EQS first drive review
Mercedes to go all-electric in certain markets by 2030