Electric sedan adds two-speed rear axle and new in-house motors with 575-mile WLTP range claim.
Mercedes-Benz doubled the voltage architecture in its 2027 EQS sedan to 800 volts. Battery capacity grows to 122kWh from 118kWh. The electric flagship reaches US dealers in late 2026.
The architecture jump mirrors moves Hyundai toward faster charging speeds. More than 25 percent of components are newly developed, according to Mercedes-Benz's April 2026 announcement. Current EQS pricing starts at $101,250 but the updated model will cost more.
Battery and Motor Changes Drive Range Gains
The 122kWh battery represents a 3.4 percent increase over the outgoing 118kWh pack. Mercedes claims 575 miles of range under WLTP testing for the base EQS 450+. That translates to roughly 400 miles under EPA testing, based on the current 450+'s 390-mile EPA rating versus its 516-mile WLTP figure. The calculation suggests a 0.755 EPA-to-WLTP conversion ratio. New electric motors developed in-house replace the previous Bosch units. A two-speed rear axle transmission joins the automotive sector's broader shift toward multi-speed EV drivetrains.
Architecture Shift Follows Premium EV Trend
The 800-volt system doubles the previous 400-volt setup, matching architectures used in Porsche Taycan and Genesis GV70 Electrified models. Higher voltage enables faster charging speeds and reduces heat generation during power transfer. Mercedes joins Audi, BMW, and Hyundai in adopting the specification for flagship models. The move contrasts with Tesla's continued use of 400-volt systems in most vehicles. Chinese manufacturers entering Europe increasingly launch with 800-volt capability as standard, pressuring established brands to match charging performance.
Model Range Expands to Three Variants
The 2027 lineup includes EQS 450+, EQS 500 4Matic, and EQS 580 4Matic variants, according to Mercedes-Benz's April specification sheet. The 500 4Matic replaces the current 450+ 4Matic in the range structure. All versions receive the powerdome hood design and revised front grille with backlit star pattern. AMG Line models substitute chrome slats for a darker grille treatment. The MBUX Hyperscreen remains standard equipment across all trim levels. Steer-by-wire technology with yoke-style steering wheel becomes available as an option.
Pricing Details Remain Withheld
Mercedes declined to announce 2027 EQS pricing despite confirming the second-half 2026 launch timeline. The current EQS 450+ starts at $101,250 including destination charges, while the 580 4Matic reaches $125,250. Industry sources suggest the voltage architecture upgrade typically adds $3,000-$5,000 to production costs. BMW's upcoming performance EVs use similar 800-volt systems with corresponding price increases. Mercedes acknowledged the updated model will cost more than current versions but provided no specific figures or percentage increases.
The EQS originally launched for the 2022 model year as Mercedes-Benz's first dedicated electric sedan platform. Production of the updated model begins in Sindelfingen, Germany in spring 2026. The complete Mercedes model history and specifications are catalogued in the Global Auto Index manufacturer database.
