The most aerodynamic production car in the world?
Mercedes-Benz took the wraps off the EQS, the brand’s first all-electric luxury saloon. At launch, there’ll be two models on offer: a 333 metric hp EQS 450+ (RWD) and a 523 metric hp EQS 580 4Matic (AWD). A more powerful, 761 metric hp variant, possibly with AMG badges, is in the works.
In meantime, we have the aforementioned two models to talk about. As always, let’s start with the looks of the car. The styling cues indeed come from the Vision EQS concept we saw in 2019. As is typical of an EQ vehicle, the front has a black panel which in the EQS, has a pattern of three-pointed stars. The shape of the headlights is also specific to the EQ sub-brand. The distinguishing factors between the 450 and 580 models are the front and rear bumpers; the 580 gets a more sporty styling. Check out the full photo gallery here. My favorite design element is that wavy taillight signature, which reminds me of a copper coil; Mercedes calls it a helix design.
As for the exterior equipment, the Digital Light which debuted with the new S-Class comes standard depending on the trim; 19-inch wheels (options up to 22-inches), standard flush door handles, and the optional panoramic sunroof. Another option is the ‘automatic comfort doors’ which as the name suggests, opens the driver door automatically when approached further. The rear axle steering (4.5-degrees) comes standard too, however, the buyers can opt for a larger steering angle of up to 10-degrees.
While the EQS can be considered as an all-electric version of the S-Class, it is built on a bespoke, electric architecture. Meaning, the EQS is not just the S-Class with electric swap.
As for the dimensions, the EQS measures 5,216 mm long, 1,926 mm wide and 1,512 mm tall. It boasts a wheelbase of 3,210 mm. Interestingly, the U.S.-spec model is 49 mm longer (5,265 mm), but the wheelbase will likely remain the same.
Also, the aerodynamicists and designers have achieved a drag co-efficient of 0.20 Cd, which is claimed to make the EQS the most aerodynamic production car in the world.
As for the suspension, the Airmatic air suspension with ADS+ continuously adjustable dampers comes standard. In Comfort mode, for example, the vehicle body is lowered by 10 mm at speeds above 120 km/h (74.5 mph) and another 10 mm at over 160 km/h (99 mph) to reduce drag and increase handling stability. The ride height returns to its default position if the speed drops below 80 km/h (50 mph). Up to 40 km/h (25 mph), the body can be raised by 25 mm at the touch of a button, and above 50 km/h (31 mph) it automatically returns to its normal level.
The EQS’ tech-overloaded cabin was revealed last month. More here. As we read about already, the cabin has been loaded with an overwhelming amount of technology and AI. Highlighlights include MBUX Hyperscreen with up to three displays on the dashboard; AI-based gesture controls, HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter, 15-speaker Burmester surround sound system, and voice command support for up to 27 languages with Natural Language Understanding (NLU).
The Energizing Comfort has three new Nature programs created in association with acoustic ecologist Gordon Hempton: Forest Glade, Sound of the Sea and Summer Rain, which are claimed to offer an immersive and realistic on-board sound experience.
Another option is the ‘Drive Pilot’, which enables the EQS to drive in conditionally automated mode at up to 60 km/h (37 mph) on suitable motorway sections, initially in Germany. Other available high-tech systems include Automated Valet Parking (SAE level 4), and Memory Parking Assist (SAE level 2) which can remember parking locations such as how to get in and out of the garage at home.
Other ADAS include the usual stuff such as the Active Distance Assist, Active Steering Assist, Traffic Sign Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Emergency Stop Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist and so on. Download the full, 70-page information sheet here to learn more.
As for the materials used, Mercedes claims the EQS contains more than 80 kg (176 lbs) of stuff manufactured from recycled and renewable raw materials. These include the cable ducts made of recycled plastic, the floor coverings made of recycled yarn, and the aluminium for the inner part of the bonnet sourced from the Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI).
Moving on to the juicy bits of the story, the EQS 450+ is a rear-wheel-drive vehicle with a single electric motor at the rear, offering a max power of 245 kW (333 metric hp) and a max torque of 568 Nm (419 lb-ft). The EQS 580 4Matic has two electric motors, one at each axle, offering a combined max power of 385 kW (523 metric hp) and a max torque of 855 Nm (631 lb-ft).
While the top speed on both models is limited to 210 km/h (130 mph), the 580 4Matic is obviously, quicker, with a 0-100 km/h (62 mph) sprint time of 4.3 seconds.
Both models are equipped with a 107.8 kWh (usable energy content) battery pack with high energy density cells, offering a claimed WLTP range of up to 770 km (478 mi). The battery pack supports a max DC charging capacity of up to 200 kW. A 15 minute DC fast-charging is claimed to add up to 300 km (186 mi) of range.
Pricing and availability are yet to be announced. In the meantime, you might wanna check out more photos here.
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