Mercedes-Benz will merge EQS and S-Class in the future

Originally, the EQ models were supposed to replace the C- to S-Class, but: Customers only received the soap-shaped EQE and EQS with lukewarm enthusiasm. Daimler's dilemma: Even the combustion S-Class is now flagging, so EQS and the combustion engine are only produced in single-shift operation. What's certain: Even in the luxury class, one must offer everything in the future, which is why the next S-Class will replace both the current model and the EQS. With one body, but on two platforms.

According to the platform "Autocar," the Stuttgart flagship will also be offered with combustion engines in its then eighth generation from 2030. Originally, a new EQS was to replace the current EQS and the S-Class. But instead, the EQS will die. CEO Ola Källenius instead confirmed two S-Classes, "one with a combustion engine and one with an electric drive." Both are to come with similar exterior and interior designs.

Here begins the dilemma for the Swabians: The models are not on a single mixed platform: The battery-powered S-Class will use the upcoming MB.EA-Large platform (the EQS still runs on the known EVA2/Electric Vehicle Architecture), while the combustion engine must use an evolved version of today's MRA architecture. This is done similarly to the G-Model, as mentioned.

The goal to sell around 50 percent as electric vehicles by 2025 was scrapped and postponed to 2030. In a conversation with Autocar, CEO Källenius, however, refuted the rumors that Mercedes-Benz would halt the development of the MB.EA-Large electric vehicle platform in favor of the EVA2M platform, which is to be used first in an updated version of the EQS in 2025. He said clearly:

"We are already planning with MB.EA Large."

This is likely also related to the fact that some basic components of the platform are also used for the Van.EA to achieve higher economies of scale. But before the next S-Class, the electric EQS is to receive a major technical upgrade again in the second half of 2025, and the S-Class with a combustion engine is likely to receive a comprehensive facelift by 2026 at the latest.

The EQS was already equipped in April 2024 with grill applications, a standing radiator star, and more comfort in the rear, offering up to 82 kilometers more range.