Mercedes-Benz launches all-electric Maybach EQS 680 SUV at INR 2.25 cr

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled all-electric Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV in India, introducing it at a price point of INR 2.25 crore. This vehicle represents a seamless fusion of unparalleled luxury and state-of-the-art electric mobility technology. The launch of this model establishes a new benchmark in the premium all-electric SUV segment, setting fresh standards for opulence and environmental consciousness.

The design philosophy of the EQS 680 SUV, both externally and internally, pays homage to Karl Maybach's iconic maxim, "What is good, must also be beautiful." As the inaugural all-electric offering from this prestigious luxury marque, the EQS 680 SUV signifies a monumental stride towards reducing the brand's ecological impact while steadfastly upholding its renowned luxury standards.

This groundbreaking model seamlessly integrates Maybach's celebrated craftsmanship with cutting-edge electric technology, thereby penning a new chapter in the illustrious history of the brand. The Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV presents a compelling vision of luxury that wholeheartedly embraces the future of mobility, offering an exquisite blend of opulence and avant-garde technology.

Santosh Iyer, who holds the position of Managing Director & CEO at Mercedes-Benz India, shared his thoughts on this landmark release. He emphasised that the Mercedes-Maybach brand has long been synonymous with unrivaled opulence, exceptional craftsmanship, and the fulfillment of exceedingly high customer expectations. Iyer asserted that with the introduction of the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV, they are redefining automotive excellence for the age of electromobility.

In terms of market strategy, Iyer highlighted that the introduction of the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV represents a continued refinement of their Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) portfolio in India.

The company has observed steady growth and increased sales penetration of its BEV portfolio in India during the first half of 2024. With a lineup now featuring five BEVs, including the newly launched Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV, Mercedes-Benz is catering to a new generation of customers who seek dynamic and high-performance electric vehicles. The introduction of the EQS Maybach SUV represents a significant enhancement to Mercedes-Benz's luxury BEV offerings in the Indian market.

The exterior design of the Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV is a testament to the brand's iconic styling. It prominently features the legendary Mercedes star on the hood, complemented by a brand-typical black panel adorned with vertical chrome accents and a seamlessly integrated radar sensor panel. The bumper's air intake is accentuated by chrome-plated filigree slats, while the classic Maybach lettering is subtly incorporated into a chrome strip that aligns with the continuous Digital Light headlights.

A distinctive Maybach pattern appears in trim parts of the side bumper and is projected onto the doors, creating a unique welcoming effect. The side profile is enhanced by bold chrome surrounds on the windows and B-pillar, emphasising the vehicle's length and quality. A Maybach emblem graces the D-pillar, while EQS lettering is subtly integrated. The SUV's pronounced wheel arches are complemented by high-gloss black cladding, exclusive 21 or 22-inch alloy wheels, and illuminated running boards featuring anodised aluminum treads.

The rear of the vehicle showcases continuous light strip rear lights, with chrome accents adorning the tailgate, rear apron, and spoiler lip, further highlighting the SUV's exclusivity. The model offers a selection of two-tone paintwork in five combinations, each applied meticulously by hand to meet the highest standards of craftsmanship.

The interior of the Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV masterfully blends traditional luxury with avant-garde elements. It features the cutting-edge MBUX Hyperscreen with a "zero layer" interface and bespoke Maybach animations, presented in a rich deep blue color. The animated instrument cluster in "MAYBACH" mode is a particular highlight, featuring rose gold surrounds and pointers that move with the grace of a silk scarf.

The central display offers intuitive interaction and can be customised with various display styles and modes. Rear passengers are treated to exceptional comfort with two 11.6-inch displays and MBUX High-End Rear Seat Entertainment, which includes a rear tablet for remote control and MBUX Interior Assist for gesture-based functions. The cabin is adorned with Maybach Exclusive Nappa leather in rich hues, with the option of MANUFAKTUR leather for those seeking the utmost in luxury. Natural wood trims and high-quality design elements, including the Maybach emblem on various surfaces, further underscore the vehicle's refined aesthetic.

The EQS SUV introduces Mercedes-Benz's first use of vegetable-tanned Nappa leather. This innovative process utilises coffee bean shells as tanning agents and plant-based fat liquoring agents, eliminating the need for salt and saving approximately 45 kilograms per vehicle. The tanning by-products are repurposed into compostable products and insulating materials. This leather is produced under stringent sustainability criteria, including a transparent supply chain and the use of chrome-free agents.

The commitment to sustainability extends beyond the vehicle itself, with Mercedes-Benz aiming to reduce CO₂ emissions by 50 per cent each passenger car by 2030 and achieve net carbon neutrality for its new fleet by 2039.

The Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV sets new standards in comfort with its automatic comfort doors at the front and rear. The recessed door handles extend as the driver approaches the vehicle from the side at a distance of approximately 20 feet. The driver's door opens automatically when the vehicle is approached from a distance of about 5 feet.

All doors can be opened and closed remotely via the MBUX system, whether through the vehicle key, the central display, or the standard MBUX High-End Rear Seat Entertainment system. The driver's door also closes automatically when the brake pedal is pressed. Each door is equipped with an electric servomotor on the catch strap, which controls the opening and closing of the doors using ultrasonic sensors from the parking assistance systems to prevent any potential damage.

The SUV's lighting system is equally impressive, featuring adaptive rear lighting with designer lamps in each C-pillar, adjustable reading lights in the grab handles, and customizable light strips in the headlining. The Ambient Lighting extends throughout the vehicle, including the roof liner and behind the rear seats. The Active Ambient Lighting system offers 253 controllable LEDs and 64 colour options, including exclusive Maybach hues like Rose Gold White and Amethyst Glow. A "Welcome" presentation features a light carpet that highlights the rear doors, enhancing the vehicle's cocooning effect.

The audio experience in the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV is nothing short of extraordinary, thanks to the standard Burmester 4D surround sound system with Dolby Atmos technology. The system boasts 15 speakers, including bass speakers, 3D speakers, and seat exciters, capable of replicating the artist's original studio sound. It supports individual sound adjustment per MBUX profile and provides a truly four-dimensional listening experience. The "Aerial Grace" driving sound, unique to this electric model, adapts in real-time to driving parameters, creating an interactive acoustic experience.

The SUV excels in noise and vibration control, featuring comprehensive NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) measures. These include encapsulated drive trains, innovative support frames, and double decoupling of drive units. Enhanced acoustic foams and underbody ramps further minimise road noise, ensuring a serene cabin environment.

In terms of ride comfort, the SUV is equipped with Airmatic air suspension with continuously adaptive damping (ADS+) as standard. This system allows for a ground clearance increase of up to 25 millimeters. The vehicle also features rear-axle steering with up to 4.5 degrees of movement, with an optional 10-degree turn available, reducing the turning circle to an impressive 11.0 meters.

Beyond the standard driving modes—ECO, SPORT, OFFROAD, and INDIVIDUAL—the SUV offers an exclusive MAYBACH driving program. This mode prioritises rear passenger comfort by minimising body movements and oscillations, and is set as the standard driving mode, further enhancing the overall ride quality.

The technical specifications of the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV are equally impressive. The vehicle measures 5125 mm in length, 2034 mm in width, and stands 1721 mm tall. It boasts a WLTP range of up to 611 km, powered by a drivetrain with a rated output of 484 kW and a substantial torque of 950 Nm. The SUV can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 210 km/h. When it comes to charging, the EQS SUV can be charged from 10 per cent to 80 per cent in just 31 minutes at fast charging stations (200 kWh), with the ability to add 300 km of range in a mere 20 minutes.

This comprehensive overview of the Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV showcases a vehicle that not only pushes the boundaries of luxury and electric mobility but also sets new standards for sustainability in the automotive industry. It represents a bold step forward for Mercedes-Benz in the Indian market and globally, offering a glimpse into the future of ultra-luxury electric vehicles.