Mercedes-Benz EQS under development as S-Class-based electric sedan

-        Will be the new flagship under the EQ electric sub-brand. 

-        Expected to break cover next year before going on sale in 2021.

Mercedes-Benz has already forayed into the electric segment with the EQC, a GLC based pure-electric SUV sold under the newly-formed EQ brand. Apart from that, we know there will also be a small EQA hatch and electric commercial vehicles like the eVito and eSprinter vans. Now, for the first time, our spy sleuths have captured the EQS flagship electric sedan undergoing testing near the carmaker’s headquarters in Sindelfingen, Germany. 

Like the EQC, the EQS will be equivalent to the S-Class when it arrives in 2021. It will be based on a separate modular platform especially developed for electric cars dubbed the MEA. Although still under a heavy disguise, the EQS test mule does give out vital information about how the production model will look like. For example, the dimensions of the prototype are more or less the same as the current S-Class and it sits lower than the CLS and GT 4-Door Coupe. The headlamp shape is similar to the one seen on the EQC and EQA Concept which, we reckon, will be the new family face for the EQ brand. The prototype was riding on large conventional wheels which seem to be borrowed from SUV sibling. 

In profile, the long slopping roofline hints at a spacious cabin which will be further benefited by batteries mounted under the floor. The taillights are still in a rudimentary state, but its shape discloses the wraparound design the production model will come with. Mercedes has also tried putting up fake exhaust tips cutout on the rear bumper. Another noticeable feature are the flush door handles which will also be offered with the next-generation S-Class (W223).

So far, no information has been divulged about the powertrain. But we assume that Mercedes will make use of a common powertrain for its electric line-up. However, this being the flagship electric product, a new and powerful powertrain option hasn’t been ruled out either. 

If rumours are to be believed, Mercedes-Benz might showcase the EQS at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show, albeit in the Concept guise. The production model is still a year or two away. When it arrives, it will already be in contention with the all-electric Jaguar XJ, and upcoming electric 7 Series, Porsche Taycan and Audi E-Tron GT.