Summary
- The Mercedes EQS sedan will not have a direct replacement and will be replaced by an electric version of the next S-Class.
- The EQS has been criticized for its unusual exterior design, which has negatively impacted sales.
- Mercedes is reconsidering its plans for the EQS due to poor sales performance, with a 52% drop in sales in the first half of 2024.
- The EQS model and nameplate will be dropped, and a more conventional-looking electric S-Class will be launched instead.
- Mercedes plans to update the EQS with a major technical overhaul, including switching from 400 volts to 800 volts for faster charging times and increased range.
Article
Mercedes Replacing EQS Sedan with Electric S-Class
Mercedes has decided to replace the EQS sedan with an electric version of the next S-Class model. The EQS sedan faced criticism for its unusual exterior design, which may have contributed to its poor sales performance. Sales of the EQS sedan and SUV were down by 52% in the first half of 2024 compared to the previous year. Mercedes has reconsidered its initial plans for the model, which included replacing the combustion-powered S-Class with the second generation of the EQS around 2030. Autocar reported that Mercedes will drop the EQS model and nameplate after the current model is phased out, launching an electric version of the next-generation S-Class instead.
Mercedes’ EV Strategy Reevaluation
Mercedes’ decision to replace the EQS with an electric S-Class may be a result of its unsatisfactory sales numbers and failure to meet targets for electric vehicle sales. The manufacturer aims to improve its EV strategy going forward, shifting focus to more conventional-looking electric vehicles. Despite initial plans to develop a new EV platform called MB.EA, Mercedes has decided to improve its existing EVA platform. Ola Källenius, Mercedes-Benz CEO, denied rumors that work on the MB.EA platform had been stopped, stating that the company plans to update the EQS with an evolved version of the EVA platform. Mercedes is planning a major technical update for the EQS, including a switch from 400 volts to 800 volts to improve charging time and range.
Upcoming Changes to EQS
The updated EQS sedan is expected to receive a significant technical upgrade, including a change from 400 volts to 800 volts borrowed from the electric CLA. This upgrade will reduce charging time and improve range, with the longest-range model expected to achieve 535 miles WLTP. The model will also feature a two-speed gearbox for improved acceleration and efficiency, as well as a higher top speed. Even the ICE S-Class is facing challenges, with sales falling by 33% in the first half of 2024 compared to the previous year. Mercedes plans to give the S-Class a major overhaul, focusing on increased power and electric range in the plug-in hybrid models with a redesigned exterior and a 56-inch Hyperscreen interior display.
Reevaluation of Mercedes’ Electric Model Lineup
Mercedes plans to update the EQS with an evolved version of the EVA platform, known as the EVA2M, while also considering future electric models based on the MB.EA architecture. The brand is working on improving its existing electric platforms and models to appeal to a broader customer base. With a major technical update planned for the EQS next year, Mercedes aims to enhance performance, range, and charging capabilities to make the electric sedan more competitive in the market. The decision to replace the EQS with an electric S-Class reflects Mercedes’ commitment to refining its EV lineup and offering more conventional-looking electric vehicles that appeal to a wider audience.
Mercedes’ Shift Towards Conventional Electric Vehicles
Mercedes’ decision to replace the EQS sedan with an electric version of the next S-Class signals a shift towards more conventional-looking electric vehicles. The EQS sedan faced criticism for its unusual exterior design, impacting its sales performance. With plans to update the EQS with a major technical upgrade and improve its charging capabilities, Mercedes aims to make the electric sedan more appealing to customers. By focusing on enhancing existing electric platforms and models, Mercedes is reevaluating its EV strategy to align with changing market trends and customer preferences. The decision to prioritize the development of an electric S-Class over the EQS reflects Mercedes’ commitment to refining its electric vehicle lineup and strengthening its position in the EV market.
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