Mercedes has unveiled major updates to its flagship EQS electric sedan for 2026, introducing new battery technology and enhanced charging capabilities as luxury automakers compete for electric vehicle dominance.
The updated EQS arrives just weeks before BMW’s facelifted i7, bringing significant improvements to range and charging performance.
Battery and Range Improvements
The most significant change is Mercedes’ new battery chemistry. The system increases capacity from 118kWh to 122kWh without adding size or weight to the pack.
Combined with the EQS’s 0.20 drag coefficient, the rear-wheel-drive EQS 450+ now delivers 575 miles of range on a single charge.
That’s enough to drive from London to Inverness with 15 miles remaining – or Munich to Paris. All-wheel-drive 4Matic models achieve 544 miles of range.
The EQS still uses Mercedes’ EVA2 platform, shared with the outgoing EQE. But the automaker upgraded the electrical architecture from 400V to 800V, boosting charging speeds from 200kW to 350kW.
This means the EQS can add 199 miles of range in 10 minutes at compatible chargers. The car maintains backward compatibility with 400V chargers by splitting its battery into two sections, each charging at 175kW.
Powertrain Updates
The 2026 lineup starts with the 362-horsepower rear-wheel-drive 450+ model, replacing the previous 288-horsepower 350 variant.
Mercedes describes the new motors as a “generational leap” – they’re more efficient, compact, and durable than previous versions.
Regenerative braking capability increases by one-third to 385kW. Mercedes hasn’t released performance figures or confirmed whether an AMG variant will return.
The EQS offers steer-by-wire technology, eliminating the physical connection between steering wheel and rack. Like the Lexus RZ and Tesla Cybertruck, this system uses an airplane-style yoke.
Despite measuring over five meters long and weighing more than 2.5 tonnes, the EQS achieves an 11-meter turning circle thanks to rear-wheel steering.
Technology and Interior
The Hyperscreen remains the interior’s centerpiece, featuring three displays: a 12.3-inch driver screen, 17.7-inch central unit, and 12.3-inch passenger display.
Mercedes updated the MBUX infotainment with “Zero Layer” functionality that surfaces frequently used features.
The virtual assistant now offers three avatars, including a human-like character called “LittleBenz” designed to create stronger personal connections with drivers.
Rear passengers get two 13-inch screens and portable remotes for climate and entertainment controls. Standard rear amenities include electrically-adjustable seats, wireless charging, and heated surfaces.
Fast-heating seatbelts carry over from the latest S-Class.
Design Changes
The exterior features a more sculpted front end that Mercedes says references the S-Class design language. The black grille includes side-mounted chrome elements and a backlit three-pointed star pattern.
AMG Line models get a large Mercedes badge in the grille center to distinguish them from base variants.
New headlights feature three-pointed star signatures and Digital Light technology. Mercedes claims this system improves visibility by 40% while cutting energy consumption in half.
The Ultra Range high-beam setting projects up to 600 meters – roughly six football field lengths.
Pricing and Availability
UK pricing hasn’t been announced, but European models start at €94,403 (approximately £82,000).
Given the current EQS starts at £99,845 in Britain, expect the 2026 model to exceed £100,000 when it arrives later this year.
The updated EQS positions Mercedes to compete directly with BMW’s refreshed i7 and other luxury electric sedans in the expanding premium EV market.
