The Mercedes-Benz Vision EQS Concept hit the stage of the Frankfurt International Motor Show with a lot of promise and splendor. The concept model is the electric S-class of the future with production starting sometime next year. We might see it as a 2021 model competing against the likes of Tesla Model S and to some extent the Porsche Taycan.
We believe the production car will carry a lot from the Mercedes-Benz Vision EQS concept. The overall design and muscular stance will remain dominant in the production model. However, certain things might not make to the production car. For instance, side mirrors will prevail instead of side cameras, and the digital grille will be replaced as well.
The interior is entirely futuristic, and it has taken its inspiration from luxury yachts. It features a wrap-around dashboard with a big display in the center. Not only that, but it also has two similar kinds of screens in the right and left armrests. The steering is rectangular. The automaker has employed high-tech materials inside to give a premium feel. DINAMICA microfibre in crystal white, artificial leather, other sustainable materials make the interior stand out.
The concept model is built on Mercedes’ new dedicated EV platform, MEA2. The same will be used in the production model, giving passengers a lot of space owing to efficient use of the platform for the powertrain placement. The flexibility of the platform allows the automaker to alter wheelbase, track, battery, and other things to suit different body configurations. Moreover, the platform uses a blend of aluminum, carbon fiber, and steel that make it rigid.
Mercedes-Benz Vision EQS Concept boasts an electric motor in the front as well as in the rear to power all the wheels. Both the motors will be able to generate a maximum of 469 horsepower and 560 pound-feet of torque. Mercedes says the car will be ready to hit 96.5 km/h in less than 4.5 seconds. It won’t be a very fast car; the top speed is limited to 201 km/h.
The concept carries a 100 kWh lithium-ion battery which can deliver a considerable drive range of 700 km/h on a single charge (WLTP cycle). On the EPA cycle, it will lower. However, it will still be around 500 km/h, which is ample for any highway trip. The automaker says the batteries can get approximately 80% of its juice in under 20 minutes at a charging rate of 350 kilowatts.
The Vision EQS comes equipped with a level-3 autonomous tech, so do not expect it to drive on its own completely. However, the modular platform enables the automaker to upgrade the equipment as the technology progresses.
Apart from the Mercedes-Benz Vision EQS Concept, the automaker is also presenting EQV and Electric V-class. Stay tuned for more updates.
Technical Specifications:
CO2 emissions | 0 g/km |
Range (WLTP) | up to 700 km. |
Output | approx. 350 kW |
Acceleration (0-100 km/h) | < 4.5 seconds |
Top speed | > 200 km/h |
Peak torque | approx. 760 Nm |
Battery capacity | approx. 100 kWh |
Charging output (DC) | 350 kW |
Drive system | All-wheel drive (fully variable) |