- Mercedes moves the EQS to 800V setup, lifting peak charging to 350kW.
- A modest 3% battery increase results in a 13% real-world range gain.
- Steer-by-wire replaces the steering with a yoke and a 270-degree lock.
Mercedes-Benz has already decided the EQS won’t get a second generation. Instead, the next S-Class will carry the load, offered in both combustion and all-electric forms. Even so, the EQS isn’t done just yet. The brand has rolled out a comprehensive second facelift, packing in a slew of new technologies that might finally persuade a few more buyers to give the polarizing blob a chance.
Four versions have been confirmed at this stage, known as the EQS 400, EQS 450+, EQS 500 4Matic, and EQS 580 4Matic, the latter three of which are all equipped with 800-volt electrical architectures and 122 kWh battery packs that promise improved energy density. The news EQS 400 has a smaller 112 kW pack.
Read: Mercedes Is Betting On A Yoke To Save The Disastrous EQS
Mercedes has also improved the charging abilities of the EV, as it now supports DC charging of up to 350 kW, meaning 199 miles (320 km) of range can be added in 10 minutes. This has been achieved by implementing software that virtually divides the battery pack into two parts, charging each with 400 volts at up to 175 kW.
In addition to the new battery, Mercedes has incorporated new electric motors for all versions. The base EQS 400 delivers 362 hp (270 kW), while the EQS 500 4Matic ups this to 469 hp (350 kW), and the EQS 580 4Matic delivers 577 hp (430 kW) and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm).
Range figures haven’t been announced for all models, but we know the EQS 450+ has a WLTP-rated range of 575 miles (926 km) with claimed energy consumption of between 15.4 kWh/100 km and 19.3 kWh/100 km. All models are also equipped with a two-speed transmission with the first gear focused on providing quick acceleration and the second kicking in at high speeds to boost efficiency.
Perhaps the most significant change made is the implementation of steer-by-wire technology, as pioneered by Lexus and Tesla. The steering ratio has been set at 4:1 at low speeds, allowing drivers to make low-speed maneuvers without needing to repeatedly cross their hands over the steering wheel.
Even More Tech-Focused Than Before
Speaking of the steering wheel, it has morphed into a Tesla-like yoke – which is bound to be controversial. Crucially, Mercedes will continue offering it with a more traditional wheel and electro-mechanical steering, rather than the fancy steer-by-wire system. In addition to the new system, Mercedes has further developed its air suspension system to improve comfort even further.
Visually, the updated EQS is distinguished from the old model thanks to a revised front fascia with a new blacked-out grille complete with dozens of three-pointed stars, and new headlights with star-shaped DRLs.
With the exception of the yoke wheel, the interior is mostly familiar. With that being said, there’s now Mercedes-Benz’s latest Operating System (MB.OS) and the new MBUX Virtual Assistant. The massive Hyperscreen remains, while found in the new 13.1-inch entertainment screens are found in the second row.
US pricing has yet to be announced, but in Europe, we know prices kick off from €94,403 ($111,000) for the EQS 400, €108,635 ($127,700) for the EQS 450+, €123,285 ($145,000) for the EQS 500 4Matic, and €134,732 ($158,500) for the EQS 580 4Matic.
