The Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+ 120 kWh, produced from August 2021 to April 2023, represents the entry point into the V297 EQS model range – Mercedes-Benz’s flagship all-electric luxury sedan. Positioned as a direct competitor to the Tesla Model S and Porsche Taycan, the EQS 450+ prioritizes range and efficiency within the EQS lineup. It serves as the foundation for the broader EQS family, offering a compelling blend of luxury, technology, and electric performance. The EQS is a liftback, offering a spacious interior and a large cargo area, and is built on a dedicated electric vehicle platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | EQS |
| Generation | EQS (V297) |
| Type (Engine) | EQS 450+ 120 kWh (333 Hp) |
| Start of production | August, 2021 |
| End of production | April, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Liftback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.2 kg/Hp, 138.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 236.2 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 120 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 107.8 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 631-782 km (392.09 – 485.91 mi) |
| All-electric range (NEDC) | 700-843 km (434.96 – 523.82 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 15.7-20.4 kWh/100 km (25.27 – 32.83 kWh/100 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (NEDC) | 16.2-18.9 kWh/100 km (26.07 – 30.42 kWh/100 mi) |
| Electric motor power | 333 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 568 Nm (418.94 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor model/code | EM0027 |
| Electric motor location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| System power | 333 Hp |
| System torque | 568 Nm (418.94 lb.-ft.) |
| Kerb Weight | 2405 kg (5302.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2945 kg (6492.61 lbs.) |
| Max load | 540 kg (1190.5 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 610 l (21.54 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1770 l (62.51 cu. ft.) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 5216 mm (205.35 in.) |
| Width | 1926 mm (75.83 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2125 mm (83.66 in.) |
| Height | 1512 mm (59.53 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3210 mm (126.38 in.) |
| Front track | 1667 mm (65.63 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1682 mm (66.22 in.) |
| Front overhang | 915 mm (36.02 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1091 mm (42.95 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 134 mm (5.28 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.20 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 13.4° |
| Departure angle | 15.1° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 9.6° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | One electric motor drives the rear wheels. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system), 4-wheel steering (4WS, active rear steering) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/55 R19; 255/45 R20; 265/40 R21; 265/35 R22 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 19; 8.5J x 20; 9.5J x 21; 9.5J x 22 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The EQS 450+ is powered by a single rear-mounted electric motor, designated EM0027. This motor produces 333 horsepower and 568 Nm (418.94 lb.-ft.) of torque. The motor utilizes a synchronous design, known for its efficiency and smooth power delivery. Power is delivered through a single-speed automatic transmission. The heart of the system is the 120 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, positioned low in the vehicle floor to optimize the center of gravity and enhance handling. The battery pack employs advanced thermal management to maintain optimal operating temperatures and prolong lifespan. The EQS utilizes an 800-volt architecture, enabling faster charging times compared to the more common 400-volt systems. This allows for DC fast charging at up to 200 kW, adding significant range in a short period.
Driving Characteristics
The EQS 450+ delivers a refined and comfortable driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 5.9 seconds. While not as blistering as the higher-performance EQS variants, the 450+ provides ample power for everyday driving and highway merging. The single-speed transmission offers seamless acceleration, and the rear-wheel drive configuration contributes to a balanced feel. The air suspension provides a smooth ride, effectively absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road. The focus is on efficiency and range, resulting in a slightly less engaging driving experience compared to the more performance-oriented models. However, the EQS 450+ excels in providing a quiet and luxurious cabin environment.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The EQS 450+ came standard with a comprehensive suite of features, including the MBUX Hyperscreen – a massive, curved OLED display spanning the entire dashboard. This display integrates the instrument cluster, infotainment system, and passenger display into a single unit. Other standard features included premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a Burmester surround sound system. Optional extras included rear-axle steering, massaging seats, and augmented reality head-up display. Trim levels were relatively streamlined, with options primarily revolving around interior color schemes and wheel designs.
Chassis & Braking
The EQS utilizes an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear, coupled with air suspension as standard. This setup provides a comfortable ride and excellent handling characteristics. The air suspension allows for adjustable ride height, enhancing comfort and providing additional ground clearance when needed. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at all four corners. The EQS 450+ incorporates advanced safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and a suite of driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.
Market Reception & Comparison
The EQS 450+ was generally well-received by automotive critics, praised for its luxurious interior, advanced technology, and impressive range. Compared to the EQS 580 4MATIC, the 450+ offered a more affordable entry point into the EQS lineup, albeit with slightly less power and all-wheel drive capability. Fuel economy, measured in MPGe, ranged from 103 to 133, depending on driving conditions. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with few major issues reported. The EQS 450+ positioned itself as a compelling alternative to the Tesla Model S, offering a more traditional luxury experience with comparable range and performance.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+ 120 kWh established a benchmark for electric luxury sedans. Its advanced technology, long range, and comfortable driving experience set a new standard in the segment. While newer iterations of the EQS have emerged, the initial 450+ model remains a desirable vehicle in the used car market, offering a compelling combination of luxury, technology, and efficiency. The powertrain has proven to be reliable, and the EQS continues to represent a significant step forward in the evolution of electric vehicles.
