Mercedes-Benz EQS to be the world’s most aerodynamically efficient car

The new Mercedes-Benz EQS will be the world’s most aerodynamically efficient road car yet, according to its maker.

• The EQS’ drag co-efficient will be even lower than the 2021 Tesla Model S facelift
• It will be based on Mercedes-Benz’s EVA platform

In an announcement ahead of the electric-powered luxury saloon’s planned unveiling on 15 April, Mercedes-Benz said the fourth model from its EQ sub-brand will boast a drag co-efficient “starting at 0.20”.

Mercedes-Benz EQS: aerodynamic efficiency

The benchmark figure, measured in Mercedes-Benz’s state-of-the-art wind tunnel in Sindelfingen, Germany, places the new headlining EQ model ahead of  both its electric-powered and combustion-engine saloon car rivals for outright aerodynamic efficiency.

In January 2021, Tesla claimed a drag co-efficient of 0.208 for the facelifted Model S, bettering the 0.21 of the Lucid Air.

It also establishes the EQS as the most aerodynamically efficient Mercedes-Benz road car yet ahead of the A-Class saloon and seventh-generation S-Class, both rated at 0.22.

The 0.20 figure was achieved in combination with 19-inch AMG wheels and with the Sport driving mode, says Mercedes-Benz.

Mercedes-Benz EQS: design

The EQS is the first model to be based on Mercedes-Benz’s EVA platform, which is also planned to underpin the upcoming EQE saloon, EQE SUV and EQS SUV, among other upcoming models.

The new Mercedes-Benz model adopts a smooth-surfaced design devoid of body creases. A key element used to achieve the record-breaking aerodynamic figure is an uncharacteristically low front end featuring a fully enclosed black panel grille, as previewed on the EQS concept car revealed in 2019.

The front corners are also heavily tapered to reduce the frontal area, while the cooling ducts have air shutters that open and close, depending on the cooling requirements of the electric driveline and brakes.

The large hood of the new luxury sedan wraps around into the flanks, placing its shut lines in a more efficient position for lower drag and less turbulence than the more conventional bonnet of the S-Class. The hood will only be openable via specialised tools at the Mercedes workshop.

Departing from the S-Class, the EQS also receives a large fastback-style tailgate that hinges from above the top of the rear screen – a layout also set to be adopted by the smaller EQE, due to be revealed at the Munich motor show in September.

A full width tail-light similar to that seen on the EQC and recently introduced EQA is incorporated into the tailgate.

Mercedes-Benz EQS: interiors

Inside, the EQS adopts its own unique dashboard, controls and trim elements. Ahead of the driver is a steering wheel similar in style to that used by the S-Class, with capacitive touch pads on the two upper spokes. A high-set centre console runs through the middle of the front cabin, underneath which are sizeable oddment stowage bins.

Customers will be able to specify the new EQ model with Mercedes-Benz’s digital MBUX Hyperscreen. Consisting of three separate displays integrated behind a single curved panel 141cm wide, it is controlled by the latest version of the MBUX operating system, whose eight-core CPU features 24GB of RAM and supports over-the-air software updates.

Other options will include a head-up display unit featuring augmented reality functions, a Burmester surround sound system with 15 speakers and output of 710W and a high-efficiency particulate filter.

The cab-forward proportions and flat floor are claimed to liberate greater accommodation than that of the S-Class, with an AMG trim line offering sporting touches, including more supportive front seats. The standard rear seat is designed for three-across seating, although the centre seat is raised and the glasshouse tapers inwards.

Mercedes launches for India in 2021

While Mercedes-Benz has not announced any plans regarding the launch of the EQS in India yet, the carmaker has launched the EQ sub-brand in India with the EQS EV SUV.

There are a number of new launches that Mercedes has planned for the Indian market in 2021. These include the second-gen GLA, the new S-class flagship limousine and the high-performance Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series. This is in addition to the already launched E-class facelift and the all-new A-class Limousine.