Tag: Luxury Electric Sedan

  • Mercedes EQS 2026: 800V System & 926 km Range to Improve Image

    Mercedes EQS 2026: 800V System & 926 km Range to Improve Image

    Key Takeaway

    1. The EQS’s update focuses primarily on technological enhancements, including a new 800-volt system, larger batteries, and improved charging capabilities, to boost efficiency and range.
    2. The design remains largely unchanged with subtle aesthetic tweaks, which may not address the significant consumer criticism of its rounded shape and overall appearance.
    3. Pricing positions the EQS firmly in the luxury segment, with improvements aimed at making it more appealing despite mixed reactions to its styling.

    Mercedes EQS Gets Major Upgrade

    Mercedes is giving the EQS its second big update since 2021. The automaker says it is now more smarter, more fancy, and even more efficient. The reason probably clear because even with all it new tech, EQS just not been quite as popular as Mercedes wanted. With the update, they try to make it more tempting for the buyers out there.

    Technology Focus and Design Changes

    Unlike what some might think, the main thing changed here is the tech. Besides some new front looks and a few small design tweaks, the overall style stay mostly same. Looks like it not a full overhaul platform change. Mercedes call this an facelift, which make it look like the EVA2 platform still being used in this new model.

    Enhanced Power and Driving Range

    Under the hood, the EQS now gets an 800-volt system, new motor units developed in-house, and a two-speed gearbox at the rear. The batteries now bigger, and the new MB.OS operating system is on board too. Mercedes promise the EQS 450+ can go up to 926 km (about 575 miles) on a WLTP cycle. That’s enough to drive from Munich to Paris or Zurich to Hamburg without stopping. Though in real life, those numbers probably won’t fully match.

    Faster Charging Capabilities

    Charging tech also got a boost. The EQS will support up to 350 kW at DC fast chargers, meaning it can add up to 320 km (about 199 miles) in just 10 minutes. Also, charging at 400-volt stations will be quicker because of a new system that splits the battery into two parts, each charging at up to 175 kW. Battery sizes go up a lot, with most variants at 122 kWh, and the base EQS 400 starting at 112 kWh.

    Pricing and Market Position

    In Germany, price for the EQS 400 starts at €94,403 ($110,301). The EQS 450+ costs €108,635 ($126,930). The more powerful 500 4Matic is at €123,284 ($144,046), while the top-end 580 4Matic are listed at €134,732 ($157,380). All these prices keep the EQS firmly in the luxury segment.

    Design and Aesthetic Updates

    The visual updates are pretty subtle. New features include power domes on the hood, a fresh front end with an illuminated star signature, and small tweaks at the back. However, many buyers may still find the design the sticking point. Since it first launched, the EQS has been praised for its aerodynamic efficiency, but its rounded shape often make it less convincing as an electric S-Class alternative.

    Market Reception and Future Outlook

    Many people never quite warmed up to the look of the EQS. This is partly why it hasn’t sold as well as hoped. Early reactions on Reddit show tech improvements are appreciated, but the design still face many jokes. Whether these upgrades will help the EQS secure a better spot in the market, with advanced tech, remains uncertain.


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  • Hongqi EH7 Electric Vehicle to Launch in Chinese Market on March 20

    Hongqi EH7 Electric Vehicle to Launch in Chinese Market on March 20

    Hongqi, a well-known brand under FAW, has unveiled the highly anticipated electric sedan, the Hongqi EH7, signaling a major advancement in China’s push towards electrification. This sophisticated vehicle, a key component of Hongqi’s "All in New Energy" strategy, showcases state-of-the-art technology and futuristic design elements.

    Launch Details and Design Features

    Set to be released on March 20, 2024, in China, the Hongqi EH7 sports a fastback silhouette with a sleek front end highlighted by distinctive "L"-shaped headlights. It comes with concealed door handles and five-spoke rims featuring red Brembo brake calipers, enhancing its sporty aesthetic. The EH7 is available in an array of vibrant colors like green, purple, and silver, ensuring it stands out on the streets.

    Interior and Technological Advancements

    Inside the cabin, a bold black-and-white color palette sets the tone, along with a 6-inch + 15.5-inch curved dual screen serving as the instrument panel and central control hub. Powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip, the EH7 offers cutting-edge features including an augmented reality (AR) head-up display and autonomous driving functionalities.

    Powertrain and Battery Specifications

    The EH7 is offered in both rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) versions. The RWD model is equipped with an electric motor generating a maximum power output of 253 kW, achieving a top speed of 190 km/h and an impressive acceleration of 3.9 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h. On the other hand, the AWD variant includes front and rear dual motors with a combined power of 455 kW and peak torque of 756 N·m.

    The vehicle’s powertrain is supported by ternary lithium battery packs supplied by CATL, with future iterations expected to feature battery-swap and long-range fast-charge options, providing a cruising range of up to 800 km. Additionally, the EH7 comes with the HAP precise automatic driving assistance system to enhance safety and convenience.

    With its groundbreaking design, advanced technologies, and environmentally friendly powertrain, the Hongqi EH7 establishes a new benchmark for electric vehicles in the medium to large sedan category. As the first model under Hongqi’s "new energy sub-brand," the EH7 is positioned to have a significant impact on the electric vehicle market, meeting the rising demand for sustainable transportation solutions.

    Hongqi EH7 Electric Vehicle to Launch in Chinese Market on March 20
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  • Huawei and BAIC Collaborate on New Sedan Post Luxeed S7

    Huawei and BAIC Collaborate on New Sedan Post Luxeed S7

    The partnership between tech behemoth Huawei and auto manufacturer BAIC has led to the creation of a fresh luxury electric sedan tentatively named “Jie Pai”. The joint brand of Huawei-BAIC collaboration is known as “Xiang Jie (STELATO)”. Leaked images by informant “Garage 42” provide a sneak peek into the aesthetics and attributes of the upcoming automobile, aimed at a price exceeding 400,000 yuan.

    Huawei’s Luxeed S7 Influence

    The collaborative effort between Huawei and BAIC results in a novel electric sedan that falls into the category of a “medium-to-large luxury pure electric sedan”. Drawing inspiration from the Luxeed S7 (Zhijie S7), the new car showcases similar design cues such as a sweeping arc roof and elegant lines, albeit with a more imposing presence and poised stance.

    Features of the Xiang Jie

    Expected to provide two rows of independently adjustable seats and electronic exterior mirrors, the Xiang Jie is designed to offer a premium driving experience. Spy shots reveal a mix of traditional rearview mirrors and electronic exterior rearview mirrors, blending conventional and contemporary design aspects seamlessly.

    Unveiling at Beijing Auto Show 2024

    Earlier images leaked by “Torpedo 2954” displayed a cockpit layout reminiscent of the Zhijie S7, complete with a sunshade over the LCD instrument area. This design continuity hints at a smooth transition for consumers familiar with BAIC’s current lineup.

    The anticipation for the new vehicle is mounting, with investors keenly awaiting insights into BAIC Blue Valley’s upcoming product strategies. BAIC has affirmed that the inaugural model stemming from its partnership with Huawei’s smart selection model will make its debut at the Beijing Auto Show in April 2024. Positioned as a top-tier smart pure electric sedan, the introduction of this fresh vehicle signifies a significant milestone for both firms.

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