All you need to know: Mercedes-Benz EQS all-electric sedan
The first bespoke all-electric Mercedes-Benz is here, in the form of its flagship EV, the EQS. Sure, the EQC was the first Mercedes-Benz pure-EV, but based on the GLC platform. The EQS, on the other hand, rides on a brand-new dedicated EVA (Electric Vehicle Architecture) platform, paving the way for future EVs from the three-pointed star, including the EQE sedan, EQE SUV and EQS SUV. Pegged as the 'S-Class of electric vehicles', the EQS sedan sets the tone for superlatives immediately by being the world's most aerodynamic production vehicle with a 0.20Cd, beating out the previous titleholder, the Tesla Model S. When the Mercedes-Benz EQS launches in India next year, expect pricing close to or over the Rs 2 crore mark.
The EQS will be available in single/dual electric motor configurations, with power ranging from 334PS/458Nm (EQS 450) to 523PS/856Nm (EQS 580). Performance for the EQS 450 stands at a claimed 0-100kmph in 6.2s, and 4.3s for the EQS 580. Both models are powered by a new-gen, more energy dense 107.8kWh battery, while driving range is up to 770km (WLTP) on a single charge. The EQS can charge at up to 200kW, which means a 15 minute charge should replenish 300km of driving range, and Mercedes-Benz offers a year of free quick charging through the Ionity network.ÂÂ
Mercedes-Benz EQS OTA, autonomous features
Other highlights include the EQS being the first Mercedes-Benz vehicle to receive over-the-air (OTA) updates that can activate new vehicle functions over time, for example â€" a 10-degree rear wheel steer angle over the standard 4.5-degrees is already available that shortens the turning circle to 10.9m, which matches the S-Class. Updates can be purchased individually, while subscription and free trial programmes are also planned. Armed with 350 sensors and Artificial Intelligence (AI), the EQS can also learn from its experiences and 'expand its capabilities'. Automated Valet Parking is one such feature that's available when fitted with the optional Connect service. Mercedes-Benz also debuts its Digital Light tech on the EQS, which allows guidance or warning symbols to be projected onto the road via the LED headlights.ÂÂ
Mercedes-Benz EQS interiors, space
All of which leads us to the MBUX Hyperscreen, an amalgamation of three curved screens stretching over 55-inches across the dashboard including a 12.3-inch display for the front passenger and 17.7-inch central touchscreen. Even the drivers head-up display can be optioned with a larger footprint, up to 77-inches! The Hyperscreen with haptic feedback is optional though, with the standard being a 12.8-inch touchscreen laid out vertically. Burmester provides the 15-speaker audio system, with a total of 710 watts, with the EQS prodividing a choice of three different unique drive sounds, ranging from soothing to powerful. Rear seat space is said to be even greater than that of the S-Class, considering the flat floor. And though the area under the hood isn't accessible for storage, the boot of the EQS offers more space than the S-Class, with 610-litres of cargo capacity, extendable up to 1,770-litres via split folding rear seats.ÂÂ
Mercedes-Benz EQS dimensions, design
The Sensual Purity design philosophy lends itself well to coupe-like silhoutte of the EQS, formed by the one-bow line, a continuous arc from the front of the car to the rear that helps its aerodynamic efficiency, along with flush door handles. Wheel sizes range from 19- to 20-inches, while overhangs are short, considering the 5,216mm length, and 3,210mm wheelbase, both comparable to the long-wheelbase S-Class. Weighing between 2,480-2,585kg at the kerb, the EQS is considerably heavier though.ÂÂ
Mercedes-Benz EQS launch date
The Mercedes-Benz EQS will go on sale internationally later this year, and like we said, we expect it to launch in India shortly thereafter, in the first half of 2022. Pricing will be well over the Rs 1.5 crore mark of the current-gen S-Class, and likely close to Rs 2 crore ex-showroom.