New 2021 Mercedes-Benz EQS unwraps ahead of imminent reveal

Mercedes-Benz is preparing to take on the Tesla Model S, Porsche Taycan and Audi E-tron GT with its plush new EQS electric saloon, and fresh shots of a minimally disguised prototype have emerged. 

Test cars have recently ditched the bulky body cladding and fake lights of previous testing mules, giving a glimpse of the headlight and tail-light designs and the overall body proportions. We recently had our first glimpse inside, too, and it looks like the EQS will have the same 11.9in central touchscreen and 12.3in digital display as the recently revealed 2021 S-Class, doing away largely with physical controls.

Mercedes has already confirmed a range of more than 700km (435 miles) for the EQS. Daimler boss Ola Källenius said the new model would also "set the benchmark" in terms of luxury, comfort and safety. 

The EQS will compete with the Taycan and its Audi E-tron GT sibling in the flourishing electric premium saloon segment. Test mules feature a low, swooping roofline, with a slim headlight design among the more obvious visible features. 

The EQS is described as being roughly the size of the current Mercedes-Benz CLS. Mercedes previously hinted at the styling of its first electric saloon with the EQS Vision concept at 2019's Frankfurt motor show. 

The latest addition to Mercedes' EQ electric vehicle line-up will join the EQC mid-sized SUV and EQA compact SUV in showrooms later this year. According to officials, the EQS name implies a level of luxury, comfort and features consummate to the company’s traditional Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

It will head up a range of six fully electric models under the EQ sub-brand from 2022.

Whereas the EQC is based on existing underpinnings from the Mercedes-Benz GLC, the range-topping EQS will be the first EQ model to benefit from Mercedes' dedicated Modular Electric Architecture (MEA).