Mercedes Adds New EQS & C-Class Electric To Line Up

Mercedes is expanding its electric vehicle lineup with significant updates to the EQS and the introduction of a new C-Class Electric model. Despite previous sales of the EQS falling short of expectations, Mercedes has opted to refine rather than retreat, enhancing the flagship electric sedan with a larger battery and advanced technology. The updated EQS now features a 122 kWh battery, delivering an impressive range of up to 575 miles on the single-motor EQS 450+, making it one of the longest-range electric vehicles available. The car also benefits from an 800-volt electrical architecture, enabling ultra-fast charging at up to 350 kW, alongside more efficient and compact electric motors that improve regenerative braking capacity. The new EQS incorporates several cutting-edge features, including an upgraded Airmatic air suspension system that uses cloud data to anticipate road conditions, enhancing ride comfort. A notable innovation is the introduction of a steer-by-wire system, replacing the traditional steering column with a virtual linkage and a yoke-style steering control that limits steering rotation to 270 degrees. This futuristic approach aims to save space and weight, though it may divide opinion among drivers. Deliveries of the refreshed EQS are expected to begin in the latter half of the year, with prices starting above £135,000, positioning it firmly in the luxury electric market. Alongside the EQS update, Mercedes has unveiled the C-Class Electric, a successor to the EQC that boasts the most spacious C-Class interior to date. Built on a dedicated electric platform, the new C-Class Electric features a longer wheelbase, improved legroom, and a panoramic glass roof that enhances headroom. Practicality is boosted with a front trunk offering 101 litres of storage and a rear boot of 470 litres, while the vehicle can tow up to 1,800 kilograms. The initial variant, the C400 4Matic, is equipped with dual motors producing 482 horsepower and a 94.5 kWh battery, promising a WLTP range of 473 miles, which translates to an estimated EPA range of around 400 miles. Performance and handling are key highlights of the C-Class Electric, which Mercedes describes as the “sportiest C-Class ever.” It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 130 mph, with rear-wheel steering that enhances manoeuvrability by reducing the turning circle to 11.2 metres. The car’s aerodynamic design, with a drag coefficient of just 0.22, contributes to its efficiency and range advantage over the GLC SUV. Fast charging capabilities allow the C-Class Electric to gain up to 202 miles of range in just ten minutes when connected to a 330 kW charger, addressing common concerns about electric vehicle range and charging times. Mercedes’ renewed focus on electric vehicles with these two models signals a strategic shift towards blending luxury, performance, and practicality in their EV offerings. The enhancements to the EQS and the