Mercedes-Benz’s upmarket Maybach division previews its first battery-electric SUV model with the unveiling of the Concept EQS at the 2021 Munich auto show in Germany.
Set for U.S. introduction in 2023, the latest in a growing number of Mercedes-Maybach models is based on the upcoming EQS SUV. It features traditionally unique exterior styling elements and signature two-tone paint scheme together with a contemporary four-seat interior with individual rear seats offering what the German automaker describes as “first class” levels of luxury and accommodation.
The EQS SUV is set to become Mercedes-Benz’s third dedicated electric model after the EQS and EQE sedans – the latter also unveiled in Munich. The Maybach version showcased by the new concept will supplement the recently introduced S680 4Matic and GLS600 4Matic, offering an electric range Mercedes-Benz puts at “around 373 miles (600 km).”
The intent is to position it at the very top of the BEV ranks in a market segment yet to be occupied by Maybach’s traditional rivals Bentley and Rolls-Royce.
“The Concept EQS represents the transformation of Mercedes-Maybach from a tradition-rich luxury brand into a more progressive electric future,” says Philipp Schiemer, head of Mercedes-Benz’s Top End Vehicle Group responsible for Maybach as well as its AMG performance car division.
Mercedes-Benz says the move from traditional combustion engines to electric drive at Maybach is partly being driven by a changing customer base for its most expensive models.
“Customers in key markets such as China, Russia, South Korea, USA and Germany are becoming younger – and with it, the definition of luxury is also changing,” Schiemer says.
The all-wheel-drive Concept EQS sits on Mercedes-Benz’s new MB.EA platform. Details of its powertrain are yet to be revealed, though WardsAuto has been told the production version will receive a setup similar to that of the newly announced EQ53 sedan, with a pair of electric motors developing approximately 650 hp and 700 lb.-ft. (950 Nm) of torque.
In an approach similar to that undertaken with more recent Maybach variants of the S-Class and GLS, the Concept EQS retains the same body structure as next year’s EQS SUV but updates it with traditional design cues.
The front is dominated by a redesigned version of Mercedes-Benz’s black panel grille featuring a Maybach-themed graphic mimicking the chromed vertical louvers of existing Maybach models.
Classic chrome Maybach lettering is integrated into the hood, along with a three-pointed Mercedes-Benz star and longitudinal trim strip down the middle.
Chrome is also used within the front air ducts, side window frame and B-pillars. Running boards appear underneath the automatically opening doors, while the Concept EQS’s wheelhouses accommodate 24-in. aerodynamically optimized wheels.
Farther back are chromed Maybach emblems within the D-pillars, a prominent roof spoiler and unique taillamp graphics.
The paint scheme of the new concept uses a two-tone treatment with obsidian black metallic and zircon red metallic separated by a chrome-colored pinstripe as a visual dividing line.
The plush interior (pictured above) of the Concept EQS leans heavily on that of the EQS sedan. The dashboard features Mercedes-Benz’s new full-width curved Hyperscreen housing three different Maybach-specific displays, while a high-set center console runs back through the middle of the cabin with rose gold-colored highlights and a large storage area, including a refrigerated compartment at the rear.
The heavily cushioned seats are similar to those found in the S-Class, those in the rear with integrated footrests for lounge-like seating. Although the concept is a pure four-seater, the production version of the Concept EQS will also offer a five-seat layout with a three-across rear bench-style seat.
Back end of Mercedes EQS Maybach concept.
