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In response to customer preferences, Mercedes CEO Ola Källenius has announced during an earnings call that the company will offer the Mercedes EQS with a traditional grille. This news, reported by Autocar, marks a significant design shift from the electric vehicle’s original prismatic grille design. Fans of the classic look will see the reintroduction of the badge on the hood, as previewed in a presentation slide.
“Some [customers] will want to keep a more sporty look and have the star integrated in the panel, and some we believe will want to have the more traditional look,” Källenius explained. This initiative caters to diverse customer tastes for the vehicle’s appearance.
This design update is part of a broader mid-cycle update to the EQS that includes enhancements like new “executive seats” and a more powerful battery anticipated to elevate the range. A speculated increase from 108 kilowatt-hours to 118, similar to the EQS SUV, could enable the flagship model to achieve approximately 380 miles of range within the U.S. market. Availability of the refreshed EQS, likely as a 2025 model, is slated for June.
The S-class frequently hints at the future of the automotive industry; thus, the EQS’s shift to more traditional styling could influence the design direction of other cars in Mercedes’ EQ lineup or even the broader EV market. However, simply changing aesthetics may not be sufficient for Mercedes to steer the EQ series towards greater success, as other design aspects, such as the controversial Hyperscreen, have not been well-received. Additionally, the luxury EV segment’s intense competition continues to pose challenges to sales.
As of this publication, Mercedes has not confirmed the availability of the traditional grille option for the EQS in the United States.
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FAQ Section
When will the updated Mercedes EQS with the traditional grille become available?
The updated Mercedes EQS is expected to be available in June, presumably as a 2025 model.
Will there be any other updates to the Mercedes EQS aside from the grille?
Yes, the midlife refresh includes rear “executive seats” and a new battery that reportedly will boost the range.
Has the traditional grille option for the EQS been confirmed for the U.S. market?
No confirmation has been provided by Mercedes regarding the traditional grille’s availability in the U.S. as of the time of publication.
What is the anticipated range for the updated EQS?
The new battery is speculated to give the longest-legged model around 380 miles of range for the U.S. market.
Why is Mercedes introducing a traditional grille for the EQS?
This change is a response to customer feedback, with some preferring the traditional look with the badge mounted to the hood.
Conclusion
The Mercedes EQS is set to receive an optional grille inspired by the iconic S-Class, addressing customer calls for a more traditional aesthetic on the electric sedan. Along with aesthetic updates, enhancements like improved rear seating and a more powerful battery aim to boost the vehicle’s appeal. As the luxury electric vehicle market continues to grow, Mercedes’ willingness to adapt and introduce customer-driven design changes may play a critical role in the success of the EQS and the broader EQ lineup. For the latest updates and confirmation on availability, especially for the U.S. market, enthusiasts and potential buyers should stay tuned to official Mercedes communications or contact local dealers.
