Mercedes-Benz updates the EQS with a new 800V architecture

The flagship saloon from the German manufacturer receives a refresh with highly significant technical changes. The most important is the move to an 800-volt architecture, replacing the previous 400-volt system, with the improvements that this brings in terms of efficiency and supported charging power.

In this way, when charging with direct current it is now possible to reach a peak power of 350 kW, recovering, according to the manufacturer, up to 320 km of WLTP range in just 10 minutes. In addition, on 400-volt chargers, the system splits the battery so that each half charges at a maximum of 175 kW.

The new EQS battery pack keeps its dimensions, but thanks to an optimised cell chemistry, with anodes combining silicon oxide and graphite, its energy density improves by 3 percent. As a result, the EQS 450+, 500 4MATIC and 580 4MATIC versions now offer 122 kWh of usable capacity, compared with 118 kWh previously; while the new EQS 400 variant features a 112 kWh battery that works with a motor integrated into the rear axle producing 270 kW.

Another notable improvement is the significant increase in towing capacity. Rear-wheel-drive models rise from 750 kg to 1,600 kg, and the 4MATIC versions can tow up to 1,700 kg.

The EQS undergoes a thorough overhaul

Additionally, Mercedes-Benz has developed new electric motors that are more compact, efficient and robust. All versions include a two-speed transmission on the rear axle, similar to that of the CLA and GLC, which improves efficiency and comfort. Energy recuperation is also greater, reaching up to 385 kW. Furthermore, bidirectional charging is incorporated: V2G –Vehicle-to-Grid– and V2H –Vehicle-to-Home-, although owners will have to wait for a future OTA software update to use it.

In terms of dynamics, Mercedes-Benz will offer for the first time on a German production car a steering system without a mechanical steering column steer-by-wire, which will arrive shortly after launch. Combined with rear-axle steering of up to 10 degrees, it promises greater agility at low speeds and better stability at high speeds, as well as filtering road vibrations.

Aesthetically, the EQS moves slightly closer to the design of the CLA, particularly in the black front panel, although it keeps its premium identity with the star on the bonnet and the dual light signatures.

It is also worth highlighting that the updated EQS features improvements to the air suspension with cloud-based damper control, a faster parking assistant and the MB.OS system with greater artificial intelligence capability. The MBUX virtual assistant is now also able to hold more complex conversations.

In Germany, the price of the updated EQS starts at 94,403 euros for the 400 version, which promises up to 810 km of WLTP range. The higher versions go above 100,000 euros.