Since the launch of the luxurious Mercedes-Benz EQS some while ago (see it here), Mercedes‑Benz has continuously developed the EQS and its siblings in their prestige range of electric vehicles (EV). New innovations have been incorporated into the EQS, as the company has responded to market and customer feedback more quickly than ever before and for this current year of 2024, the EQS is now receiving an extremely extensive update package.
About The EQS Upgrade
The German brand’s electric flagship comes with up to eighty-two kilometres more range, a new radiator cover with chrome applications and an upright Mercedes star on the front hood as well as even more comfort in the rear. The EQS was already one of the world’s electric cars with the longest range. In the future, say the company, EQS drivers will be able to cover even more distance without stopping to charge and that’s always a bonus.
Thanks to an increased battery capacity from 108.4 to 118 kWh, the maximum range of the EQS 450+ (combined energy consumption: 19.9 – 16.3 kWh/100 km with zero CO² emissions) exceeds the official 496 mile (800 kilometre) mark. There’s another technical milestone too: Due to the high proportion of recuperation in daily operation (where lifting off the accelerator immediately slows the car), the brake discs are used less often than in combustion models. In the future, a special function will maintain the brake system by automatically applying the pads to the discs from time to time.
The Exterior
The distinguishing feature of the Mercedes‑EQS is the deep black radiator ‘grille’ (or black panel as it is now), which connects seamlessly with the headlights. The designers have now refined this independent face specifically for the EQS: The electric flagship is equipped with a new radiator cover with chrome applications as standard in the brand’s Business Class Line. Chrome-plated and flush-mounted slats create an elegant contrast to the deep black surroundings. This ‘grille’ is combined with a standing star on the front hood and combines EQ looks with the iconic, status-conscious Mercedes‑Benz symbol.
The Interior
The sense of high-quality details is also reflected in the interior: the ventilation nozzles on the B-pillars now have a frame made of galvanised chrome. The additional cushion in the rear is enhanced by piping made of Nappa leather and it’s in he back where most of the upgrades occur. The EQS can be equipped with the optional Extended Rear Luxury Lounge Pack which now has a special slanted footrest on the right side in the rear compartment. Placed between the rails of the front seat, it noticeably increases comfort for the rear passenger because he or she can place his or her feet at an angle. Now that’s business class.
The passenger seat can be folded forward and the backrest in the rear can be adjusted up to 38 degrees. This ensures more space. The optional equipment also includes seat heating and neck and shoulder heating in the rear, as well as pneumatic adjustment of the seat depth. An illuminated trim piece is integrated into the back of the front seats.
The fact that Mercedes‑Benz has increased the rear comfort of this premium electric business cruiser in several steps also applies to the rear seat package that has been standard in the car for some time. The angle of the backrest can be adjusted from 27 to 36 degrees at the touch of a button. The layered look of the seat covers emphasises the individual seat character. More foam in the backrest and the cover that is detached from the side bolsters ensure a softer seating experience.
Up front, the MBUX Hyper-screen is now standard on the EQS. There, three displays merge almost seamlessly into one another, creating a screen strip that is over 55.5 inches (141 centimetres) wide. Further improvements to the heat pump increases climate comfort and power efficiency. The waste heat from the electric drive (inverter and electric motor) and the high-voltage battery can be used to heat the interior. This enormously reduces the need for battery power for the heater and thus increases the range. Why has no-one thought of this before?
The Drive
A ‘Disconnect Unit’ (DCU) in the 4MATIC models automatically decouples the electric motor on the front axle depending on the driving situation and the required performance. At low loads, the DCU switches to 4x2 driving mode. Then the electric motor and the transmission on the front axle come to a standstill. This again increases the range. (Note: in the UK 4MATIC is only available on AMG EQS 53 version).
The recuperation level of the EQS has been increased. The greater deceleration means more energy recovered and therefore, once again, enhances the range. Mercedes‑Benz has now also optimised the braking system: It offers a better pedal feel thanks to a modified brake force cylinder. Updates to the EQS are made using over-the-air technology. Features include include, for example, Dolby Atmos, the YouTube web app and a digital travel guide.
The EQS can be easily started and locked with the ‘KEYLESS-GO’ comfort package with preparation for the Digital Vehicle Key which is standard equipment via, say, a smartphone. Key sharing is also possible: Family members or acquaintances can be digitally invited to use the vehicle.
A Quantum Leap
The EQS has made great strides since its inception and is now considered one of the best among luxury electric vehicles. It is pretty much in a class of its own. If this or any model from the Mercedes-Benz-AMG range, be it electric or fossil-fuel powered, is of interest then please consider the comprehensive VAT-free export service from the UK to global destinations like the Caribbean, New Zealand, Ireland or Kenya.
