Mercedes-Benz adjusts EQS plan, unites electric and gasoline S-Class vehicles, according to reports
In a strategic move to cater to the evolving automotive market, Mercedes-Benz has announced plans to replace the EQS with a new unified model line by around 2030. This decision will see the EQS merged into a single luxury vehicle line that will cater to both electric and traditional powertrains, effectively making the EQS a standalone model obsolete [1].
The EQS, initially launched as a separate electric flagship, did not resonate with its target market. Mercedes-Benz's design chief, Gorden Wagener, admitted that the EQS was "10 years too early" in terms of styling and positioning, with its futuristic design not appealing to traditional S-Class buyers who expect a more classic luxury sedan look [1][2][3].
This strategic unification aims to offer an S-Class generation that includes electrified variants alongside internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, rather than having separate model lines for the S-Class and EQS. The new approach is similar to BMW's approach with the 7 Series and i7 duo [1].
The new unified flagship is expected to harmoniously combine classic luxury elements with advanced EV technology, addressing design, identity, and customer aspirations [1]. While the EQS will remain in production for several more years, the transition to this unified model line is anticipated around 2030 [1].
In the meantime, the current EQS will continue to be sold, with incremental updates until the next-generation flagship is launched. A further set of updates for the EQS is due as soon as next year, potentially addressing comfort and technology [1].
Meanwhile, the Mercedes-Benz CLA has seen strong demand as production scales for EV and petrol models. The company is committed to keeping up the pace in the luxury EV market and has a range of luxury models available for comparison and viewing, including the S-Class, EQS, EQS SUV, AMG S 63, Maybach EQS, and upcoming V-Class models [4].
The updates for the EQS might focus more on comfort and technology rather than a full-on redesign. The unified model family is expected to be released in 2030 [1]. The pricing and specifications of the upcoming V-Class 2024 are not provided in the article [4].
Mercedes-Benz is determined to maintain its position in the luxury EV market and this strategic move towards unifying its luxury sedan offerings is a significant step towards achieving that goal. The company is set to present both internal combustion and electric powertrains in its new unified flagship, promising a harmonious blend of classic luxury and futuristic innovation.
- The decision to unify Mercedes-Benz's luxury sedan offerings will see the company presenting a harmonious blend of classic luxury and futuristic innovation, both in internal combustion and electric powertrains.
- The EQS, initially introduced as a standalone electric flagship, might undergo updates focusing on comfort and technology, rather than a full-on redesign, before being merged into the unified model line around 2030.
- Mercedes-Benz aims to cater to the evolving automotive market by offering an S-Class generation that includes electrified variants alongside traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, similar to BMW's approach with the 7 Series and i7 duo.
