Overview
Mercedes-Benz is preparing a significant midcycle update to its flagship electric sedan for the 2027 model year. According to reporting by The Drive based on cold-weather testing, the refresh focuses on efficiency, charging performance, and drivetrain enhancements, with comparatively subtle exterior changes.
Key Hardware Upgrades (per The Drive)
- Move to an 800-volt electrical architecture from 400V to enable faster DC fast charging and improved efficiency.
- Adoption of updated eATS 2.0 electric motors, described as more powerful and efficient.
- Addition of a two-speed transmission on the rear axle to aid both low-speed acceleration and high-speed efficiency.
- Platform evolution to EVA2M, integrating the above components.
The Drive positions these changes as efforts to close gaps in charging speed and range versus rivals while sharpening performance.
Charging Architecture and Connector
The shift to 800V is expected to reduce charging times when compatible infrastructure is available. Exact charging rates and battery specifications were not disclosed. The Drive reports that Mercedes has not confirmed whether the updated sedan will include a native NACS port in North America; if not, owners may continue to use CCS-to-NACS adapters for Supercharger access, and the outlet says Mercedes has been supplying adapters upon request.
Exterior Updates
Spy photos show heavy camouflage at the front and rear, suggesting revised fascias and lighting. The overall profile appears unchanged, maintaining the model’s rounded, aerodynamic silhouette. The Drive cautions that styling tweaks are likely modest rather than a full redesign.
Performance and Positioning
The current long-range configuration (EQS 450+) carries an EPA estimate of 390 miles and a 0–60 mph time of 5.9 seconds. Higher-output variants improve acceleration at the expense of range. The 2027 update is framed as emphasizing real-world charging convenience and efficiency gains over cosmetic changes, with the upgraded motors and two-speed rear gearbox expected to improve both performance and energy use.
Market Context
The Drive notes ongoing developments in Mercedes’ U.S. EV strategy and portrays this refresh as a response to critiques around charging speed and outright performance, keeping comfort and refinement central to the model’s appeal.
What Remains Unknown
- Final battery capacity, motor output, and performance figures.
- Peak charging power, charging curve specifics, and confirmed connector choice (NACS vs. CCS).
- Any substantial interior, infotainment, or driver-assistance updates.
- Pricing and on-sale timing.
As testing progresses, official details are expected closer to production. For now, the engineering focus appears centered on reducing charging time, extending range, and refining the powertrain.
