Driven | The Mercedes-Benz EQS
We spent time sampling what Mercedes-Benz dubbs their electric S-Class, the EQS. Underpinned by a completely new platform. The most impressive feature has to be the range, during our time, the most impressive range we got after our charge was 711 kilometres. The model makes use of a 108kWH battery pack with a single synchronous electric motor at the rear axle and this helps the model produce 245kW and 568nm of torque. It will also go from 0-100 in 6.2 seconds according to the Mercedes.
Exterior
In terms of looks, we have to be honest, we weren’t that sold on the non-AMG styling which we think deserves to be standard on the model. Anyway, the top of the Mercedes-Benz EQS runs in a single uninterrupted line from the front wheels to the rear wheels, almost as if there is no bonnet. There is no doubt that the Mercedes EQS is a big car. At over 5.2m long, the model definitely stands out. We spoke of the AMG body styling earlier, and we really think that coming in at a premium of almost R3 million, it should have been standard on the model and we think it would have looked marvellous. The 21-inch alloys on our test unit had some blue styling elements to show that it is an electric car, however, we would have optioned our ideal EQS with the multispoke alloys we have seen within the electric range. Even our EQA had the same style of multispoke alloy. Without having to sound a bit tense about the exterior, we think you get the picture now, and if you are a prospective buyer, we would recommend that you tick that AMG option. The grille is sealed off and adorns some Mercedes stars and we found that coool. It is also a coupe, so frameless doors, yay! The rear then caps off with a lightbar (and as we always say, if you don't have a lightbar these days, then what are your designers doing) and a little ducktail. (again, it would look better on an AMG body style).
Interior
Okay, we promise. we are done with the exterior and how much it deserves the AMG body style. The EQS is furnished with a plethora of opulent conveniences and is lined with gorgeous, high-quality materials. Numerous headrest cushions for the front and back passengers, substantial ambient inside lighting, and other desirable elements are on the list. Take our word for it, Mercedes has gone all out in the interior. Apart from the offset stitching on the driver door panel that meets the dashboard on our particular test unit, we think that the interior is breathtaking. We would also suggest the type of seating setup in the Mercedes-Benz S500 with a tablet and all to control various rear passenger comfort like aircon, the sunroof and sunshade and even having the potential to slide the passenger seat in front forward.
Our test unit was not optioned with the R150 000 Hyperscreen: a huge, glass panel that wraps around the infotainment system and extends across the instrument panel. it featured the conventional dashboard as standard, despite the fact that the Hyperscreen panel is futuristic and all, the standard dashboard was sufficient. The interior of the EQS is also extremely roomy and this is thanks to a totally flat floor and a long 126.4-inch wheelbase and because this is basically a "big hatchback" the cargo room is likewise exceptionally extensive.
Those who read our Mercedes-Benz C220d review will also notice that the EQS comes standard with the standard arrangement which is a tablet-like touchscreen that extends from the centre console and floats above the dashboard. In terms of connectivity, you get a bunch of USB type C all over the cabin as well as a 12V socket.
Drive
The EQS450+ has an electric motor situated on its back axle that produces 245kW and 568nm of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 in 6.2 seconds. The model is also equipped with adjustable air suspension, which makes the ride exceptionally soft, and because it is electric, the ride is extremely tranquil. A standard rear-axle-steering system can move the back wheels up to 4.5 degrees, with an optional upgrade turning them 10 degrees. This technique was developed to improve the 5-metre-long car's manoeuvrability in confined spaces as well as its stability at high speeds.
Based on our experience, the EQS has a tranquil cabin and a silky ride quality, but we have reservations about the car's disconnected-feeling brake pedal and wish its functioning felt more natural. Fortunately, enabling the car's adaptive regenerative braking system allows the driver to avoid using the limp brake pedal for the most part, allowing the system to recuperate energy by forcefully stopping the car when the driver takes off the accelerator.
Range and Charging
The most amazing feature had to be just how fast the EQS charges, and the range. We managed to charge the 2.5-tonne brut from 35% to 100% in only an hour using the country's fastest charge at the Mall of Africa in only an hour. This then brought our range to 711 kilometres a feat that is more than the claimed range by the manufacturer. However, Mercedes will sell/provide you with an 11kW charger at home, which means that charging the batteries would normally take roughly 10 hours. There is, however, the option of upgrading to a 22kW charger, which takes half the time.
Overall Thoughts and Price
Overall, we think the Mercedes-Benz EQS is a great offering. Sure, we might have bashed the exterior non-AMG stylish however the interior and the range puts it miles ahead of its competitors. We have not tested the BMW i7 as yet, but for now, we are happy with the. EQS. We just do not think that it is an electric S-Class. The S-Class is something completely different and we do not feel that the EQS embodies that regardless of it long stature and acres of room in the nor the Tech.
The Mercedes-Benz EQS will cost you, R2 615 100, as standard.
