The SUV version of the EQS will be made exclusively in the USA

The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, the third model series with this architecture developed for electric vehicles, has officially entered production in Alabama, United States of America.

Contrary to popular belief, the model will be produced exclusively in the United States and not Germany, which means that supply to markets around the world will also come from Alabama. 

There will be three variants, namely the EQS 450+ (355 hp / 568 Nm), EQS 450 4MATIC (355 hp / 800 Nm), and the EQS 580 4MATIC (536 hp / 858 Nm), with the maximum range rated at up to 660 km, up to 613 km, and up to 613 km respectively. 

The new EQS SUV shares the 3,210 mm wheelbase with the EQS Saloon, but is over 20 cm higher. The interior dimensions also benefit from these generous SUV dimensions and from the advantages of the purpose design tailored to the electric platform. 

While the second row of seats can be electrically adjusted as standard, there is enough space to fit up to four golf bags in the boot. A third row of seats with two additional individual seats and extensive comfort features for all passengers is also available as an option.

Since the EQS Saloon was the first model series from Mercedes-Benz in which completely new vehicle functions can be activated in several areas via over-the-air updates (OTA), the EQS SUV now takes this a step further.

For example, Trailer Manoeuvring Assist or MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) Augmented Reality Navigation can be activated at a later date.

The chassis of the new EQS SUV on the other hand, has a four-link axle at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. The AIRMATIC air suspension with continuously adjustable damping ADS+ is standard equipment. 

In addition to the Dynamic Select modes (Eco, Comfort, Sport and Individual), the 4MATIC versions also feature Offroad, a further mode for off-road driving. Furthermore, rear-axle steering with a steering angle of up to 4.5 degrees is standard. 

The highlight of the interior is the MBUX Hyperscreen (special equipment). This large, curved screen unit spans almost from A-pillar to A-pillar. Three screens sit under a common cover glass and merge visually. The 12.3-inch OLED display for the front passenger gives them their own display and control area. 

In Europe, and in a growing number of countries, the front seat passenger is also able to watch dynamic content while the vehicle is on the move.

This is because Mercedes-EQ is able to rely on an intelligent, camera-based blocking logic: If the camera detects that the driver is looking at the passenger display, the system automatically dims the dynamic content.

Last but not least, the Dolby Atmos sound system takes the audio experience in the EQS SUV to a new level. Individual instruments or voices of the studio mix can be placed all around the listening area.