Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the updated 2027 EQS, introducing significant hardware and software improvements as the company aims to reinforce the position of its flagship electric sedan in the highly competitive luxury EV segment.
A key highlight of the refresh is the transition to an 800-volt electrical architecture, replacing the previous 400-volt system that had been criticized for relatively slow charging speeds. The new setup enables DC fast charging of up to 350 kW at compatible stations, while still supporting 175 kW charging on 400-volt infrastructure. Mercedes says this upgrade significantly reduces charging times and improves overall usability for long-distance travel. Regenerative braking capacity has also been enhanced, now reaching up to 385 kW.
Although the EQS continues to be built on Mercedes’ MEA electric platform, it now incorporates technologies from the company’s upcoming MB.EA architecture, which will underpin future electric models including next-generation versions of the GLC and C-Class. These updates include newly developed electric drive units and a rear-mounted motor paired with a two-speed transaxle designed to improve acceleration, efficiency, and high-speed performance.
The battery system has also been revised, featuring updated chemistry with silicon-oxide and graphite anodes and reduced cobalt content. These improvements increase energy density enough to expand capacity from 118 kWh to 122 kWh without altering the physical size of the pack. As a result, Mercedes estimates a WLTP driving range of 544 to 575 miles, depending on the variant.
One of the most notable technological additions is optional steer-by-wire functionality, making Mercedes-Benz the first German automaker to bring a production vehicle to market without a mechanical steering shaft backup. The system uses a yoke-style steering controller with up to 170 degrees of rotation, removing the need for traditional hand-over-hand steering. A conventional electromechanical steering system with a round wheel will remain available for customers who prefer a more traditional setup.
Visually, changes to the EQS are subtle, with Mercedes retaining its aerodynamic silhouette while introducing revised hood contours, updated AMG-Line grille detailing, illuminated star accents, and upgraded Digital Light headlamps. The automaker says the new lighting system improves visibility while cutting energy consumption by 50%.
Inside the cabin, the EQS adopts the latest Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), featuring an upgraded MBUX Virtual Assistant powered by multiple artificial intelligence platforms, including Google Gemini and ChatGPT. The navigation system has also been enhanced with AI-driven route planning that accounts for terrain, weather, traffic, and wind conditions to optimize energy efficiency and charging strategy.
Additional interior updates include heated seatbelts for front occupants, larger 13.1-inch rear-seat entertainment displays with integrated HD cameras for video conferencing, and expanded over-the-air software capabilities. Driver assistance systems have also been upgraded with improved automated parking functions, reverse maneuver memory of up to 500 feet, and predictive suspension adjustments based on shared road-condition data from other Mercedes vehicles.
The 2027 Mercedes-Benz EQS will be offered in 450+, 500 4Matic, and 580 4Matic variants. Pricing is expected to range from $105,000 to $127,000, with sales scheduled to begin in September 2026.
The update underscores Mercedes-Benz’s push to keep the EQS competitive in the premium electric sedan market, where it faces strong rivalry from models such as the Lucid Air and BMW i7, both of which continue to set high standards in range, performance, and technology.
