A year ago, Mercedes-Benz did the prudent thing and halted its EQ lineup of electric vehicles in the US. With customer demand for luxury EVs waning and federal incentives being eliminated by vindictive Republicans, Mercedes shelved its first-generation EV.
But then, in January, Mercedes quietly re-introduced the EQS brand in the US drive Declaring that “drops are back” – a reference to the sedan’s much-maligned jelly-bean shape that prioritized aerodynamics over a more traditional profile. But we still didn’t realize how far behind the EQS really was.
Today, Mercedes is reintroducing its electric sedan to the cash-strapped market, and it’s sweetening the pot with a stellar range estimate and an innovative steer-by-wire technology, a first for the German automaker. The 2027 EQS is scheduled to arrive at US dealerships in the second half of 2026.
Mercedes isn’t really messing around with the new EQS. The sedan’s range is estimated at 925 km (575 mi) on the WLTP cycle (which is about 10–20 percent more generous than the EPA’s estimate). This is achieved thanks to a new battery chemistry that blends silicon oxide with graphite for the anode, enabling a usable capacity of 122kWh. Mercedes is also cutting back on the use of cobalt, which has been dubbed the “blood diamond of batteries” due to its links to human rights abuses.
Charging will also be significantly improved with the refreshed EQS. The automaker upgraded the architecture to 800 volts, allowing 350 kW DC fast charging, adding 320 km of range in just 10 minutes. When charging at a 400-volt station, the EQS’s intelligent control system virtually splits the battery in two, charging each half at 400 volts and up to 175kW of energy.
Incorporating steer-by-wire is certainly a big risk. Steer-by-wire, in which the vehicle is steered electronically instead of through a physical connection between the steering wheel and steering rack, can improve maneuverability and increase comfort. Or it could cause latency issues – although Mercedes says it has thoroughly tested its systems for safety. A new steering yoke could help attract race enthusiasts to the dealership. But if you prefer a good old-fashioned round-shaped steering wheel and reliable electromechanical steering, Mercedes will be happy to sell you an EQS with them too.
The silhouette is still decidedly blob-like, but Mercedes says the one-bow design enables an industry-leading drag coefficient of 0.20 – which is further optimized by “sophisticated exterior mirrors”. This presumably helps with range gains, but it may be a tough sell among shoppers who would prefer somewhat sharper angles. Mercedes increased the regenerative braking power by a third to recover 385 kW.
And, of course, there’s more AI integration, including Mercedes’ improved MB.OS operating system, which features AI-powered assistants and over-the-air software updates. The now standard 55-inch Hyperscreen has a “zero layer” interface for easier navigation. The operating system uses AI to learn which features you use most, then displays those features as individual widgets on the main screen. Ideally, you don’t have to dig through lots of submenus to find what you want.
Mercedes plans to offer the EQS in various packages. The EQS 450+ is the range leader, with a single, rear-wheel drive motor delivering the highest efficiency of all versions. The EQS 500 4MATIC and EQS 580 4MATIC are both all-wheel drive, with the front motor having an integrated disconnect unit. This allows the car to disengage the front motor when not needed to save energy, then activate it at “lightning speed” when the driver needs extra traction or acceleration. And these models will provide the most regen due to their ability to harvest energy from both axles during braking.
Image: Mercedes-Benz
The new EQS will come standard with the automaker’s advanced driver-assistance system MB.Drive Assist, which uses 10 cameras and 27 sensors for automatic lane changing, evasive steering and automated parking. However, it’s Mercedes’ new Level 2++ feature called Drive Pilot Assist that’s becoming available on the CLA electric sedan later this year. This system is similar to Tesla’s FSD in that it can be used hands-free in cities but requires the driver to be alert.
Mercedes hasn’t revealed pricing for the EQS yet, but it’s offering immense options for configuration and customization. This will happen through the automaker’s Manufacture Made to Measure program, which includes more than 100 paint colors and other custom interior options. This could help shift the atmosphere around the EQS from “series production” to “tailor-made” territory, allowing for combinations that wouldn’t be found on standard dealership lots.
Overall, the new EQS will definitely help round out Mercedes’ EV lineup in the US, which is in flux right now. The automaker has not said whether it will also revive the EQS SUV, or the EQE sedan and SUV. The CLA is doing a good job of attracting attention. And Mercedes is sticking to its promise to introduce several new EVs in the US in the coming years, including variants of its GLC crossover and E-Class sedan.
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