926 km Vary, 800V, Steer-by-Wire

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled a closely revised model of the EQS, its flagship electrical sedan. Based on the corporate, greater than 1 / 4 of the car’s elements have been up to date, pointing to a wider engineering revision than the same old grille and trim modifications. The largest change is beneath. The EQS strikes from a 400-volt to an 800-volt electrical system, adopts the identical underlying structure utilized by the newest CLA, and introduces steer-by-wire know-how. For a mannequin that already served as a know-how showcase throughout the Mercedes-Benz lineup, the 2026 EQS pushes additional in that path.

As much as 926 Kilometers of WLTP Vary

The EQS 450+ is rated at as much as 926 kilometers on the WLTP cycle, or about 575 miles. Mercedes says that represents a 13 p.c improve over the earlier model. In real-world phrases, it means the EQS stays one of many longest-range luxurious EVs on sale, no less than on the European take a look at cycle. That improve comes from a number of updates working collectively. Battery capability rises from 118 to 122 kWh, whereas revised cell chemistry combines silicon oxide with graphite within the anode to enhance power density and additional cut back cobalt content material. Mercedes can also be including a brand new EQS 400 variant on the decrease finish of the vary. It produces 270 kW and makes use of a 112-kWh battery. Pricing has not but been introduced.

800-Volt Charging and Drivetrain Adjustments

The shift to 800-volt {hardware} additionally modifications the EQS’s charging efficiency. DC quick charging now tops out at 350 kW, with Mercedes claiming as much as 320 kilometers of WLTP vary might be added in 10 minutes below very best situations. At older 400-volt chargers, the battery can cut up into two digital sections, with every half drawing as much as 175 kW. That ought to assist preserve first rate charging efficiency even when newer high-voltage infrastructure is just not accessible.

Mercedes has additionally elevated regenerative braking output by roughly a 3rd, to 385 kW. One other notable drivetrain change is a brand new two-speed rear transmission, with one ratio geared toward low-speed response and the opposite at freeway effectivity. Rear-wheel-drive variations additionally acquire a a lot greater towing capability, now as much as 1,600 kg. Bidirectional charging, together with vehicle-to-home and vehicle-to-grid functionality, is scheduled to reach later via an over-the-air replace.

Steer-by-Wire Arrives

One of many extra notable additions is the non-obligatory steer-by-wire setup. Mercedes says the EQS would be the first German series-production automotive to supply it. As a substitute of a bodily mechanical hyperlink between the steering wheel and the entrance wheels, inputs are transmitted electronically.

That enables the corporate to tune steering really feel extra freely, cut back undesirable vibrations, and use a flatter steering wheel design. As with every steer-by-wire system, redundancy is central to the idea. Mercedes says the EQS makes use of twin sign paths, whereas rear-axle steering and wheel-specific braking intervention present backup help if wanted. The characteristic won’t be accessible instantly at launch however is predicted shortly afterward.

MB.OS Turns into the Core Software program Platform

The 2026 EQS additionally adopts Mercedes-Benz’s new MB.OS software program structure, which now manages all the things from infotainment to drivetrain and driver-assistance capabilities. The platform is tied to the Mercedes-Benz Clever Cloud, permitting ongoing over-the-air updates after buy.

The MBUX Digital Assistant has been revised as effectively and now incorporates Microsoft AI for extra conversational, multi-step voice interplay. Patrons will nonetheless get the MBUX Hyperscreen as customary, spanning greater than 55 inches throughout the dashboard. Rear-seat passengers acquire two 13.1-inch shows, up to date handheld remotes, and help for video conferencing apps similar to Microsoft Groups, Zoom, and Webex.

Driver-assistance options are dealt with via the MB.DRIVE system, which makes use of 27 sensors in whole: 10 cameras, 5 radar sensors, and 12 ultrasonic sensors. Parking Help has additionally been up to date and might now detect diagonal parking areas whereas working at speeds as much as 5 km/h.

Cabin and Gear Updates

Inside, the modifications are extra incremental. The entrance seatbelts are actually heated, reaching as much as 44 levels Celsius. Air filtration is dealt with by a 9.82-liter HEPA filter that Mercedes says captures 99.65 p.c of particles. Patrons additionally get new anthracite open-pore poplar trim and, for the primary time within the EQS, the choice of a totally leather-free inside. Mercedes can also be increasing personalization via its MANUFAKTUR Made to Measure program, with roughly 125 accessible paint colours.

The DIGITAL LIGHT headlamps have been upgraded to micro-LED know-how. Mercedes says the brand new setup will increase the illuminated subject whereas lowering power consumption, and the ULTRA RANGE excessive beam is rated for a attain of as much as 600 meters.

Extra Than a Routine Replace

Taken as an entire, the 2026 EQS seems nearer to a significant technical revision than a traditional mid-cycle replace. The transfer to 800 volts, the addition of steer-by-wire, the brand new MB.OS platform, and the massive WLTP vary determine all counsel Mercedes is making an attempt to maintain the EQS related in a phase that’s turning into extra aggressive. That can matter as compared with rivals such because the BMW i7 which additionally due for a facelift replace this month.

[Photos: Mercedes-Benz Media]