Refreshed Mercedes EQS arrives in Poland with 926 km range and 350 kW charging

Mercedes-Benz has launched its significantly updated EQS electric sedan in Poland, introducing a suite of enhancements aimed at improving range, charging speed, and overall performance. Since its market debut in 2021, the EQS has undergone its most substantial refresh, with over a quarter of its components re-engineered or refined. The core of these upgrades revolves around an 800 V electrical architecture, new electric motors, a revised battery system, and advanced electronics.

The battery capacity has been increased to a usable 122 kWh from the previous 118 kWh, achieved through changes in cell chemistry and the incorporation of silicon-graphite composite anodes, without altering the physical size of the battery pack. The rear-wheel-drive EQS 450+ variant now claims an impressive WLTP range of 870 to 926 km, depending on configuration, powered by a 408 hp and 505 Nm electric motor. This model accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds. All-wheel-drive variants, the EQS 500 4MATIC and EQS 580 4MATIC, offer 476 hp and 585 hp respectively, with ranges between 731 and 876 km, and 0-100 km/h times of 4.5 and 4.1 seconds.

A major highlight is the enhanced charging capability, enabled by the 800 V system. The EQS models can now accept DC fast charging at rates up to 350 kW. Mercedes claims that a mere 10-minute charge at a compatible station can add approximately 320 km of WLTP range to the EQS 450+. A full charge from 10% to 80% takes about 27 minutes. The vehicle also supports 400 V charging stations, where its electrical system splits the battery into two virtual sections, allowing each to charge at up to 175 kW. AC charging remains capped at 11 kW.

Further refinements include new electric motors developed in-house by Mercedes. Notably, the primary motor on the rear axle is now paired with a two-speed transmission. This dual-gear setup is designed to optimize energy consumption by allowing the motor to operate more efficiently at both low and high speeds, particularly contributing to reduced energy use during faster driving. The maximum recuperation power has also been boosted to 385 kW, enhancing energy recovery during braking. The permissible trailer weight has also been increased.