Mercedes-Benz has revealed the updated 2027 EQS, introducing a broad range of hardware and software enhancements as the automaker seeks to bolster the appeal of its flagship electric sedan in the increasingly competitive luxury EV market.
Headlining the update is the adoption of an 800-volt electrical architecture, replacing the previous 400-volt system that had drawn criticism for slower charging performance. The upgraded platform enables DC fast-charging speeds of up to 350 kW at compatible stations and 175 kW when using 400-volt chargers, significantly reducing recharge times. Regenerative braking output has also been improved, rising to 385 kW.
While the EQS continues to ride on Mercedes’ existing MEA electric platform, the sedan now incorporates several technologies derived from the company’s forthcoming MB.EA architecture, which will underpin future electric models including next-generation versions of the GLC and C-Class. These upgrades include newly developed electric drive units and a rear-mounted motor paired with a two-speed transaxle to improve acceleration, efficiency and high-speed performance.
Mercedes has also revised the EQS battery pack with updated chemistry featuring silicon-oxide and graphite anodes and lower cobalt content. The improvements raise energy density enough to expand battery capacity from 118 kWh to 122 kWh without increasing pack size. As a result, the company estimates WLTP driving range of between 544 and 575 miles, depending on variant.
A major technological addition is optional steer-by-wire, making Mercedes-Benz the first German automaker to launch a production vehicle without a mechanical steering shaft backup. The system uses a yoke-style steering controller with up to 170 degrees of rotation, eliminating the need for traditional hand-over-hand steering. Buyers preferring a conventional setup will still be able to choose standard electromechanical steering with a round wheel.
Exterior changes are relatively restrained, with Mercedes preserving the EQS’s aerodynamic silhouette while introducing revised hood contours, updated AMG-Line grille detailing, illuminated star accents and upgraded Digital Light headlights. According to the automaker, the new lighting system improves visibility while reducing energy consumption by 50%.
Inside, the EQS receives the latest Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), featuring an upgraded MBUX Virtual Assistant powered by multiple AI platforms including Google Gemini and ChatGPT. The navigation system has also been enhanced with AI-based route planning that considers terrain, weather, traffic and wind conditions to optimize energy use and charging stops.
Additional cabin upgrades include heated front seatbelts, larger 13.1-inch rear entertainment screens with integrated HD cameras for videoconferencing, and expanded over-the-air software functionality. Driver assistance technologies have also been improved, adding enhanced automated parking, reverse maneuver memory for distances of up to 500 feet, and predictive suspension tuning using shared road-condition data from other Mercedes vehicles.
The 2027 EQS will remain available in 450+, 500 4Matic and 580 4Matic trims. Pricing is expected to range from $105,000 to $127,000, with sales set to begin in September 2026.
The updates represent Mercedes-Benz’s latest effort to strengthen the EQS against growing competition in the premium EV segment, where rivals such as the Lucid Air and BMW i7 continue to raise the benchmark.
