Mercedes-Benz has unveiled a significantly updated 2026 EQS, extending the range of its flagship electric sedan to nearly 600 miles and introducing major technological enhancements aimed at strengthening its position against rivals such as the BMW i7, Lucid Air, and the forthcoming Jaguar Type 00.
Leading the upgrades is a revised battery chemistry that increases energy density by 3%, boosting total battery capacity from 118 kWh to 122 kWh without altering the pack’s size or weight. Combined with broader efficiency improvements, the rear-wheel-drive EQS 450+ now delivers an official range of up to 575 miles—an increase of 13% over the previous model and placing it among Europe’s longest-range electric vehicles.
The dual-motor EQS variant also benefits from the revisions, with range rising to 544 miles per charge.
In a major engineering shift, Mercedes has upgraded the EQS from a 400-volt electrical architecture to an 800-volt system while retaining the EVA2 platform shared with the EQE. The move allows peak DC fast-charging speeds to jump from 200 kW to 350 kW, bringing the EQS in line with the fastest public charging infrastructure currently available in many markets.
Despite the architecture upgrade, the EQS remains compatible with 400V chargers through a system that can virtually split the battery into two sections, enabling each half to charge at up to 175 kW.
Mercedes said the EQS’s updated electric motors represent a “generational leap” over the outgoing units, featuring improved compactness, efficiency, and durability. Regenerative braking performance has also been enhanced, with recuperation capacity increasing by one-third to 385 kW.
Beyond the powertrain, the 2026 EQS introduces an optional steer-by-wire system that eliminates the mechanical steering column in favor of a digital linkage, reducing weight and freeing up cabin space. The setup also replaces the conventional steering wheel with a yoke design, supported by a reduced steering lock-to-lock range of just 270 degrees.
Suspension upgrades include the latest Airmatic air suspension system, shared with the new electric GLC and updated S-Class. The system uses cloud-based road data to proactively adjust damping for potholes and speed bumps.
Additional updates include a new automatic reversing function for tight parking situations, redesigned headlights that illuminate a 40% wider area while consuming 50% less energy, and aerodynamic refinements to the front fascia aimed at improving efficiency.
Mercedes has also added heated seatbelts capable of warming to 44 degrees Celsius in cold weather, a comfort feature the automaker says enhances its signature “welcome home” experience.
Customer deliveries of the updated 2026 Mercedes-Benz EQS are scheduled to begin in the second half of the year. Pricing is expected to rise modestly from the current starting point of approximately £100,000.
