Daimler: The EQS: the first electric vehicle in the luxury class

• The new EQS[1]: the main points at a glance

The EQS is the first all-electric luxury saloon from Mercedes-EQ. With it, Mercedes-EQ is redefining this vehicle segment. The EQS is also the first model to be based on the modular architecture for luxury and executive-class electric vehicles. Fusing technology, design, functionality and connectivity, the EQS delights both drivers and passengers. The first models to come onto the market are the EQS 450+ rated at 245 kW (NEDC combined electrical consumption: 18.9-16.2 kWh/100 km; CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km) plus the EQS 580 4MATIC rated at 385 kW (NEDC combined electrical consumption: 19.6-17.6 kWh/100 km; CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km). Fuel consumption acc. to WLTP: EQS 450+ combined electrical consumption 19.8-15.8 kWh/100 km, CO₂ emissions 0 g/km; EQS 580 4MATIC combined electrical consumption 21.4-18.3 kWh/100 km, CO₂ emissions 0 g/km.

As part of its “Ambition 2039” initiative, Mercedes-Benz is working on offering a carbon-neutral new car fleet within 20 years from now. By as early as 2030, the company wants more than half the cars it sells to feature electric drive systems – this includes fully electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids. In many areas, Mercedes is already thinking about tomorrow today: the new EQS is designed to be correspondingly sustainable. The vehicles are produced in a carbon-neutral manner, and resource-saving materials such as carpets made from recycled yarn are used. This is because Mercedes-Benz considers the entire value chain, from development and the supplier network to its own production. Mercedes-Benz AG has had its climate protection targets confirmed by the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTI).

With a lot of meticulous detail work and on the basis of the purpose design, the aerodynamicists in close cooperation with the designers were able to achieve a new C_d benchmark^[1] of 0.20. This makes the EQS the most aerodynamic production car in the world. The operating range particularly benefits from this. It is also among the best in terms of quiet running. The very low wind noise level contributes significantly to this.

In terms of recuperation, too, the EQS is excellent: of the maximum deceleration in the D^Auto recuperation program of 5 m/s², up to 3 m/s² is achieved by recuperation (2 m/s² by the service brakes). This allows deceleration to a standstill without using the brake pedal, while at the same time the range benefits from this recuperation strategy and the high recuperation power (up to 290 kW). Deceleration is also applied to detected vehicles ahead until they come to a standstill, for example at traffic lights. Intelligent recuperation is situation-optimised with the aid of ECO Assist and acts with foresight, taking into account traffic conditions or topography, among other things. The driver can additionally set three recuperation levels and the gliding function via shift paddles on the steering wheel.

With ranges up to 780 kilometres (WLTP) and an output of up to 385 kW, the drive of the EQS also meets every expectation of a progressive saloon in the S-Class segment. A performance version with up to 560 kW is being planned. All EQS models have an electric powertrain (eATS) at the rear axle, while the versions with 4MATIC also have an eATS at the front axle.

The EQS marks the launch of a new generation of batteries with significantly higher energy density. The innovative battery management software, developed in-house, allows updates over the air (OTA). In this way, the energy management system remains up to date throughout the life cycle. In terms of the cell chemistry, the cobalt content of the cathodes has been reduced to ten percent.

The EQS can be charged with up to 200 kW at fast charging stations with direct current. Power for up to another 300 kilometres (WLTP) is recharged in just 15 minutes^[2]. At home or at public charging stations, the EQS can be conveniently charged with up to 22 kW with AC using the on-board charger. In Japan, bidirectional charging with the EQS will also be possible, i.e. charging in both directions. In addition, there are various intelligent charging programs that can be activated automatically depending on the location, and functions such as particularly battery-saving charging.

By means of high-quality certificates of origin, Mercedes-Benz guarantees that energy from renewable energy sources is fed into the grid for charging current sourced via Mercedes me Charge. This so-called Green Charging has been an integral part of Mercedes me Charge since 2021. But Mercedes me Charge can do even more. drive to the appropriate charging station^[3], open the flap, plug in and the current starts flowing: this is how easy the charging process is with the EQS, thanks to Plug & Charge. Other highlights include the densest network of charging points, with more than 500,000 of them in 31 countries, including over 200,000 in Europe. With IONITY Unlimited, all European Mercedes me Charge customers can use the fast charging network free of charge for one year.

Navigation with Electric Intelligence plans the fastest and most convenient route, including charging stops, based on numerous factors and reacts dynamically to traffic jams or a change in driving style, for example. A new feature of the EQS is a visualisation in the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system showing whether the available battery capacity is sufficient to return to the starting point without charging. Charging stations along the route that have been added manually are given preference in the route calculation. Proposed charging stations can be excluded. The estimated charging costs per charging stop are calculated.

Although the EQS is a close relative of the new S-Class, it is built on an all-electric architecture. This completely new concept made a rigorous Purpose Design possible: with its one-bow lines and cab-forward design with fastback, the EQS is clearly distinguishable from vehicles with combustion engines even at first glance. The design philosophy of Sensual Purity, combined with Progressive Luxury, is reflected in generously sculpted surfaces, reduced joints and seamless transitions (seamless design).

The front is combined into a ‘Black Panel’ unit. Innovative headlights connected by a light band and the deep black radiator grille (Black Panel) form the distinctive face. The exclusive look of the Black Panel radiator grille with central Mercedes star can be enhanced still further: as an optional extra, they are also available with a three-dimensional star pattern. This so-called Mercedes-Benz pattern is available in conjunction with AMG Line exterior or Electric Art exterior. The design picks up on the original star of the Daimler-Motorengesellschaft, which was registered as a trademark in 1911.

The EQS is the first Mercedes to offer the option of activating completely new vehicle functions via over-the-air updates (OTA) in many functional areas. Available from launch: two special driving programs for young drivers and service staff, some little games and the demo program “The Best or Nothing”. This means that, following the purchase and the initial new-car configuration, some of the features of the EQS can be adapted according to personal preferences. For vehicles produced from the start of 2022 it will also be possible to unlock the rear axle steering with the larger steering angle of 10°. In addition to the classic purchase of individual functions, subscriptions, temporary activations and free test phases are also planned.

With ENERGIZING AIR CONTROL PLUS, Mercedes-Benz is taking a comprehensive approach to air quality in the EQS. The system is based on filtration, sensors, a display concept and air conditioning. The HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter has a very high filtration level that enables it to trap fine particles, micro-particles, pollen and other substances that enter with the outside air. Sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides and odours are also reduced thanks to an activated charcoal coating. The HEPA filter has the “OFI CERT” ZG 250-1 certification in the area of viruses and bacteria. Using pre-entry climate control, it is also possible to clean the interior air before getting into the vehicle. The particulate levels outside and inside the vehicle are also displayed in MBUX. They can be viewed in detail in the dedicated Air Quality menu. If the quality of the outside air is low, the system can also recommend closing the side windows or the sliding sunroof.

As an option, the EQS has automatic comfort doors^[4] at the front and rear. When the driver approaches the car, first of all the door handles extend. As he or she approaches further, the driver’s door opens automatically. Using MBUX, the driver is also able to open the rear doors, for example, to let in children in front of the school.

As an exceptionally intelligent vehicle, the EQS has up to 350 sensors, depending on the equipment. These record distances, speeds and accelerations, lighting conditions, precipitation and temperatures, seat occupancy as well as the driver’s blink of an eye or the passengers’ speech. This wealth of information is processed by control units that, controlled by algorithms, make decisions at lightning speed. So they are the brain, so to speak. The new EQS can expand its capabilities based on new experiences, because it is highly capable of learning thanks to artificial intelligence (AI).

The all-round sound experience in the EQS also makes the paradigm shift from a conventional to an electric car audible. A variety of soundscapes allows for an individual acoustic set-up. In combination with the Burmester® surround sound system, the EQS features the two soundscapes Silver Waves and Vivid Flux. As Sound Experiences they can be selected or switched off on the central display. Another soundscape can be unlocked using over-the-air technology. The interactive driving sound, which is reproduced via the sound system’s speakers in the interior, also moves within the respective sound world.

New to ENERGIZING COMFORT are the three ENERGIZING NATURE programs Forest Glade, Sound of the Sea and Summer Rain. These provide an immersive and impressively realistic on-board sound experience. These calming sounds were created in consultation with the acoustic ecologist Gordon Hempton. As with the other ENERGIZING COMFORT programs, other senses are addressed with lighting moods and images.

The standard rear axle steering with a steering angle of up to 4.5° contributes to the handy and dynamic impression of the EQS. Alternatively, rear axle steering with a steering angle of up to 10° can be ordered or activated subsequently in the case of vehicles produced from the start of 2022 by means of an upgrade over the air (OTA). This makes a turning circle of 10.9 metres possible for the EQS, which is over five metres long. This corresponds to the turning circle of many models in the compact class. The respective rear-axle angles and trajectories are shown in the drive program menu in the central display.

Thanks to powerful sensors that monitor the vehicle’s surroundings, the parking systems can help the driver with manoeuvring in many areas. The driver can manoeuvre the vehicle into and out of parking spaces via smartphone using Remote Parking Assist. With the pre-installation for the INTELLIGENT PARK PILOT, the EQS is prepared for automated valet service (AVP, SAE level 4). If equipped with the required optional equipment and the corresponding Connect service (depending on the country), the vehicle has the technology on board to manoeuvre into and out of parking spaces fully automatically and without the driver in car parks equipped with AVP infrastructure, provided that national laws allow such operation.

The revolutionary DIGITAL LIGHT headlamp technology (standard from Advanced Plus equipment level) enables guide markings or warning symbols to be projected onto the road. New are the two assistance functions^[5] that display the start of the cooperative lane change and provide a warning/direction instruction if Lane Keeping Assist or Blind Spot Assist detect a hazard. DIGITAL LIGHT has a light module with three extremely powerful LEDs in each headlamp, whose light is refracted and directed by 1.3 million micro-mirrors. The resolution is therefore more than 2.6 million pixels per vehicle.

With the optional DRIVE PILOT, the EQS will be able to drive in conditionally automated mode at up to 60 km/h where traffic density is high or in tailbacks on suitable motorway sections, initially in Germany. This takes the strain off the driver and gives them time to do other ^things[6], such as browsing the web or attending to emails in the In-Car Office.

An absolute highlight in the interior of the EQS 580 4MATIC is the MBUX Hyperscreen fitted as ^standard[7]. This large, curved screen unit sweeps almost from A-pillar to A-pillar. Three screens sit under a cover glass and appear to merge into one. The 12.3-inch OLED display for the front passenger gives him or her their own display and control area. The entertainment functions are only available there while the car is being driven in accordance with the country-specific legal regulations. Mercedes-EQ relies on an intelligent, camera-based locking logic: if the camera detects that the driver is looking at the front passenger display, it is automatically dimmed.

With adaptive software, MBUX adapts completely to its user and makes personalised suggestions for numerous infotainment, comfort and vehicle functions. With the zero layer, the most important applications are always offered on the top level within the field of vision, according to situation and context.

The latest generation of driver assistance systems includes numerous driver support functions. New, for example, is the additional microsleep warning from ATTENTION ASSIST. It analyses the driver’s eyelid movements through a camera on the driver’s display (only in conjunction with MBUX Hyperscreen). The assistance display within the driver’s display shows the operation of the driving assistance systems in a comprehensible full-screen view.

The principles of Integral Safety, in particular accident safety, apply regardless of the platform. Like all other Mercedes, the EQS therefore features a rigid passenger compartment, special deformation zones and state-of-the-art restraint systems. PRE-SAFE® is standard. The fact that the EQS is based on an all-electric architecture also opened up new design possibilities for its safety concept. It meant, for example, that a favourable location could be chosen for the installation of the battery, in a crash-protected area in the underbody. And because there is no large crankcase on board, the behaviour in a frontal crash could be modelled even better. In addition to the standard crash tests, the car’s performance in various additional load situations was verified and extensive component tests carried out at the Vehicle Safety Technology Centre (TFS).

Key technical data^[8]

[1] EQS 450+ with 19-inch AMG wheel/tyre combination and AMG Line exterior (available in the EU from the end of 2021) in the SPORT drive program

[2] Charging speed at DC fast charging stations with 500 amps

[3] This convenient authentication method will initially be available at the IONITY fast charging stations throughout Europe.

^[4] Follow after market launch

[5] Due to road traffic regulations, the availability and functions of these new assistance functions may be restricted in certain markets

[6] The legally permissible secondary activities of the driver depend on the relevant national traffic regulations.

[7] Optional in the EQS 450+

[8] The electrical consumption (and information based thereon) has been determined on the basis of Commission Regulation (EC) 692/2008 according to NEDC and Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151 according to WLTP

[9] This value refers to the electrical power fed into the electric battery due to recuperation. Deviations are possible

[10] The charging times are for a 10-100% full charge at a wallbox or public charging station (AC connection with at least 11/22 kW, 16/32 A per phase)

[11] The charging times are for a 10-80% charge at a DC fast charging station of category “K” or “L” pursuant to EN17186 with 500 A charging current

[12] At DC fast charging stations with 500 amps based on WLTP range

[13] Electronically limited

• The Mercedes Management on the EQS[1]

• The new EQS: at a glance

• Short interview with Christoph Starzynski, Vice President Electric Vehicle Architecture

• The new EQS: sustainability at a glance

• The new EQS: sustainability

• The new EQS: the exterior design

• The new EQS under the magnifying glass: the design concept (exterior)

• The new EQS under the magnifying glass: see, hear, smell, feel

• The new EQS: Aerodynamics

• The new EQS: the automatic comfort doors

• The new EQS: Electric drive[1]

• The new EQS: the noise and vibration comfort

• The new EQS: the traction battery[1]

• The new EQS: Mercedes me Charge

• The new EQS: the charging functions

• The new EQS: navigation with Electric Intelligence

• The new EQS: Over-the-Air-Updates (OTA)

• The new EQS: the interior design

• The new EQS: Double interview on MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience)

• The new EQS: MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience)

• The new EQS: the MBUX Hyperscreen

• The new EQS: the Sound Experiences

• The new EQS: Artificial intelligence (AI)

• The new EQS: ENERGIZING AIR CONTROL Plus

• The new EQS: ENERGIZING COMFORT

• The new EQS under the magnifying glass: Gordon Hempton, American acoustic ecologist

• The new EQS: Climate control

• The new EQS under the magnifying glass: the Burmester® surround sound system

• The new EQS under the magnifying glass: Active Ambient Lighting

• The new EQS: the suspension

• The new EQS under the magnifying glass: the two versions of rear axle steering

• The new EQS under the magnifying glass: DIGITAL LIGHT

• The new EQS: the driving assistance systems

• The new EQS: The parking assistants

• The new EQS: DRIVE PILOT for conditionally automated driving

• The new EQS: passive safety

• The new EQS under the magnifying glass: innovative design methods for bodyshell components

• The new EQS under the magnifying glass: high-voltage safety

• Technical data[1]

SOURCE: Daimler