Mercedes EQS: The New Bag — Quick Review of the Big Electric Benz
Who knew that James Brown would perfectly summarize the essence of the new all-electric Mercedes EQS? He is right, as the venerable German brand that has long been associated with premier automotive luxury for almost a century now is embracing electromobility — and with a bang.
Cue the electric guitar riff and horns at the end of the aforementioned stanza.
One is immediately drawn to the battery-powered saloon by its simple yet audacious exterior. Its curved yet minimal design masks its world record coefficient drag of just 0.20 Cd — making it the most aerodynamic production vehicle ever. Its faux front grille displays a vastly illustrious tile pattern of its iconic emblem that is completely illuminated upon vehicle start. Even its flush door handles protrude and glow upon entry as a subtle invitation to partake in a unique experience. All of the above clearly reaffirms its well-known motto: the best or nothing.
This array continues into its breathtaking cabin where the only word for it is wow. One is immediately taken aback by its spaciousness, which is made possible by the powertrain being housed at the bottom of the vehicle in a skateboard chassis. Such ingenuity allows the EQS to rival its more famous sister, the S500, in terms of interior space. Beyond the plush seating that is expected from the paragon juggernaut, one is greeted with two screens on the center console and driver dashboard that would make any techie salivate. In fact, Mercedes has an optional offering for the Hyperscreen, a gigantic 56-inch screen that displays across the front of the cabin — the first of its kind amongst both electric and gas-powered vehicles.
Nevertheless, one can be assured that such aesthetics is matched by performance as the 5,900 pound vehicle instantaneously conjures its 250 kilowatt motor to muster up to 751 horsepower that quietly bolts one from 0 to 60 miles per hour in only 3.4 seconds — rivaling the Porsche 911. Such brawn is also achievable through its 108 kilowatt-hour battery that can provide a cruising range of 350 miles.
Scheisse.
The EQS also has a 200 kilowatt maximum charging speed which can help the battery pack achieve 0 to 80 percent charge in under 30 minutes. One is also covered with a 4-year, 50,000-mile basic warranty, and 10 years and 155,000 miles for the battery. Electrify America further sweetened the pot by offering two years of complimentary rapid charging at its 600 stations across the United States.
It is well known that the boys in Stuttgart have always stayed true to their founders’ mission to give the world a taste of opulence whenever they are behind the wheel. May they continue to blitzkrieg such excellence through the new age of automotive technology.
Wunderbar.
Shout-out to Sang Han at Mercedes-Benz Tysons Corner for his excellent customer service.
Photos courtesy of Rodney Watkins. Shout out to Sang Han at Mercedes Benz Tysons Corner for his excellent customer service.
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