Mercedes has unveiled its EQS – the top-of-the-range model for the company’s all-electric range that comes under the EQ brand banner.

Style and design is terrific and recognisably Mercedes – it is based on the S-Class – but it is on the inside where things get futuristic.

Two models – the EQS 450+ and the 580 4MATIC – are to be launched first. Two battery pack sizes are available – 90kWh or a 107.8kWh – and range is claimed as high as 770km with power on tap of between 245kW and 385kW (a performance version with 560kW is on the drawing board).

The 450+ is driven by an eATS single motor assembly at the rear axle and gets 245kW and 568Nm, while the 580 4MATIC thas an eATS on the front axle too. Power here is a combined 385kW and 855Nm.

The 450+ can reach 100km/h in 6.2 seconds and a top speed of 210km/h, while the 580 4MATIC can do the sprint in 4.3 seconds with the same top speed.

The EQS’ battery can be charged with up to 200kW at fast charging stations with DC power and can receive enough power for 300km of range in 15 minutes. At home or at public charging stations, it can be charged with up to 22kW with AC power using the on-board charger (an 11kW on-board charger is standard).

The interior of the EQS is dominated by the MBUX Hyperscreen – the massive, one-piece dash panel that incorporates three displays – a 12.3-inch driver display, a 17.7-inch central display, and a 12.3-inch passenger display – and from which the car’s many tech infotainment features are controlled.

Loaded with AI software, the control and display concept is able to adapt to its user and makes personalised suggestions for numerous infotainment, comfort and vehicle functions.

Available interior features include an ambient lighting system, a Burmester sound system, head-up display, a panoramic sunroof, displays for rear-seat passengers and more.

Safety and driving assistance features are legion and amongst the many available are Active Steering Assist, Active Lane Changing Assist, Active Brake Assist, Evasive Steering Assist, Active Emergency Stop Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist and exit warning function, driver attention monitoring, and Evasive Steering Assist. Parking assist features are also available.
The EQS is reportedly to be available in Australia towards the end of 2021.

Source: Motor Trader e-Magazine (May 2021) 

27 May 2021