Mercedes Admits Mistakes with the EQS and Plans Changes
The EQS was meant to be an alternative to the Tesla Model S, but its aerodynamic design drew significant criticism. This greatly impacted the sales that Mercedes had expected from the model. The company has now admitted that the EQS did not meet market expectations.
Mercedes-Benz representatives stated that the EQS may have appeared too early, and its marketing was not ideal. Many considered this car to be an electric version of the S-Class, but in reality, it was developed as a different type of vehicle – not as a luxury sedan for drivers, but as a progressive car of the future.
“It is a very progressive car, and it was not conceived as a chauffeur-driven limousine. Many clients in this class expect a long hood and status, but the EQS offers something different. Perhaps we should have positioned it as a futuristic CLS or S-Class Coupé,” the designer noted.
Updates and the Model’s Future
In 2024, Mercedes tried to make the EQS more traditional with a radiator grille update, but the overall shape remained the same. As a result, the company decided not to develop a second generation of the EQS. Instead, it is planned to merge the S-Class and EQS into one lineup, which will include both electric and conventional engines – similar to how BMW combines the 7-Series and i7.
The new model may not appear until 2030, so the EQS will remain on sale for some time yet. Mercedes will continue to update it, with possible new changes as early as next year. However, no radical design changes are expected – the focus will be on improving functionality, not appearance.
Mercedes’ decision reflects a growing trend of hybridizing premium car lineups, as manufacturers try to meet the diverse needs of buyers. For now, the market for electric sedans remains niche, and companies have to experiment to find the perfect balance between innovation and tradition.