The Mercedes-Benz EQS is Mercedes’ electric flagship sedan, launched in 2021. It was the first car on Mercedes’ dedicated electric luxury platform (EVA2), and at launch it had the lowest drag coefficient of any production car, around 0.20. With a large battery, long range, available rear-axle steering and the optional MBUX Hyperscreen, it is often described as the electric S-Class — though it is a separate car with a very different shape. An EQS SUV built in Alabama and a Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV followed.

At a glance
Launched 2021
Platform EVA2, dedicated electric architecture
Drag coefficient About 0.20 at launch
Battery Around 108–118 kWh usable, depending on year
Range Among the longest of any EV, depending on version
Siblings EQS SUV, Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV, AMG EQS

A different shape from the S-Class

Where the S-Class has a traditional long hood and upright grille, the EQS uses a single arching “one-bow” shape, like a cab-forward teardrop. That shape, plus flush door handles and a closed front, gives it exceptionally low drag — the key to long range.

Inside

The optional MBUX Hyperscreen stretches a single curved glass panel across the dashboard, containing three screens, including a passenger display. Rear passengers get their own climate zones and, with the Executive package, rear screens. A HEPA air-filtration system can clean cabin air to very high standards — useful in city traffic.

Range and charging

The EQS offers some of the longest real-world range of any electric sedan, and it can use high-power DC fast chargers. Winter reduces range for every EV; see EV range in winter.

EQS vs S-Class

The S-Class remains the more traditional, formal limousine, with a more upright rear seat and more headroom. The EQS is quieter at low speeds and has no tailpipe emissions. Read EQS vs S-Class and BMW i7 vs Mercedes EQS.

Updates

A 2024 update added a chrome-slatted grille panel, a stand-up star on the hood in many markets, a larger battery and more rear-seat comfort features — partly in response to customers who wanted the EQS to feel more like an S-Class.

Electric sedans in chauffeured service

Electric luxury sedans are ideal for city chauffeuring: silent, smooth and clean. The challenge is charging time on busy days with back-to-back trips. Many fleets, including ours, run the proven Mercedes-Benz S-Class while electric infrastructure grows. See electric vs gas luxury cars.