A glimpse into the future as Mercedes launches new electric EQS ​​and EQE

Amid predictions about the breathless pace automakers are taking in converting their ranges to all-electric, Mercedes launched two more big models this week.

The large luxury EQS and the smaller EQE complement the current range of EQA, EQB, EQC and the MPV EQV.

The arrival of the latest duo marks the accelerated move towards an all-electric brand by the end of the decade.

The EQS is based on the S-Class sedan (but looks completely different) and there are two variants from launch: EQS 450+ (with eATS electric motor on the rear axle), which starts at €129,965, and an EQS Mercedes- AMG 53 4MATIC+all version with all-wheel drive (motors on both axles) from €180,015.

The EQS 450, which I rode briefly, has a 109kW battery, a range of up to 735km and an output of up to 333hp.

Mercedes says the new “modular” cab/coupe design will likely be used in future BEVs. The cabin houses an optional concave dashboard-mounted enhanced MBUX infotainment ‘hyperscreen’.

Its curved and curved surface extends over the entire width of the interior front. Impressive.

Up to 350 sensors monitor the car’s functions, the driver’s eyelid movements and speech. And there’s a 15-speaker surround sound system.

A mix of high-tech and artificial intelligence elements, includes more than 40 new inventions and 20 new design applications.

It’s big, roomy and nestled with comfort, but the steering was too light for me and rear visibility wasn’t great.

In the meantime, the EQE is expected to attract current owners of the E-class sedan, although the price will increase by around €20,000.

There are four models. They expect the EQE 350+ version to be the most popular. It costs from 85,980 euros.

The EQE 350 has a range of up to 654 km. Another model for the market launch is the AMG EQE 43 for 120,180 euros. And later in the year there will be the EQE 500 and AMG EQE 53 (with up to 505 kW). Both have 4MATIC all-wheel drive.

Mercedes claims the EQE’s most striking feature is its “one-bow” line and “cab-forward” styling, which like the EQS’s design will likely be featured in future electric models. The shape of things to come.

There was plenty of passenger and trunk capacity (expanding to 430 liters), but rear visibility wasn’t great. Design and equipment are strongly influenced by the EQS: with special equipment such as MBUX Hyperscreen, automatic comfort doors and rear-axle steering on the menu.

SUV versions of the EQS and EQE are due early next year, quickly bringing the number of EQ vehicles they will have on the road to eight.

With the shift from electric-first to electric-only, the brand is accelerating toward a “zero-emissions and software-driven future.”

And a key goal is that their deployment will be fully electric by the end of this decade and carbon neutral by 2039.

A few key figures emerged at launch.

This includes, for example, how 60 billion euros will be invested in electrification between 2022 and 2026. By 2024 there will be an EQG – yes, an electric G-Wagen.