Mercedes-Benz S-Class and EQS to Merge Under One Name in 2030

Introduction

In a move to bring parity between its electric and combustion-engine line-ups, Mercedes-Benz has announced that the next generation S-Class and EQS will be unified under one name. This means that the flagship model will continue to have an internal combustion engine (ICE) option in its eighth generation, despite previous plans to replace it with the Mk2 EQS. Both versions will feature similar exterior and interior designs, although they will be based on different platforms.

Unified Models

The decision to unify the S-Class and EQS models comes after disappointing sales for both vehicles. Mercedes-Benz saw a 37% drop in deliveries of the ICE S-Class in the first quarter of 2024. As a result, the production of the S-Class has been reduced to a single shift at the Factory 56 facility in Germany. The brand initially projected that electric models would make up more than 20% of its global sales in 2023, but they only achieved an 11% share. This prompted Mercedes-Benz to revise its goal of having pure-electric and plug-in hybrid models account for 50% of its annual sales by 2025, pushing the target to 2030.

Platform Differences

Although the S-Class and EQS will have similar designs, they will be based on different platforms. The S-Class EV will use the upcoming MB.EA Large platform, while the ICE S-Class will be built on a further developed version of the current MRA architecture. Despite the platform differences, the eighth-generation S-Class is planned to have a unified look for both combustion-engine and electric models, similar to rivals such as the BMW 7 Series and i7.

Future Updates

Before the arrival of the next-generation S-Class, Mercedes-Benz has plans to refresh the existing EQS and S-Class models. The EQS will receive a major technical upgrade in the second half of 2025, including a new 800V electric architecture for faster charging times and an increased range. The facelifted S-Class is scheduled to be released in 2026, featuring a new front end design, upgraded V8 engine, and improved autonomous driving capabilities.

Conclusion

Mercedes-Benz’s decision to unify the S-Class and EQS models under one name reflects the brand’s efforts to balance its electric and combustion-engine line-ups. Despite the platform differences, both models will have similar designs, allowing for a unified look across the range. With future updates and investments in both electric and combustion technologies, Mercedes-Benz aims to meet its goals for increased sales of electric vehicles and maintain the highest technological standards for its engines.