2024 Mercedes-Benz Maybach EQS SUV Spy Shot: Maybach's First EV Coming Soon
Mercedes-Benz is developing a Maybach-enhanced version of its recently unveiled 2023 EQS SUV, a prototype of which has been spotted.
The reveal should take place in 2023, so the full-size Maybach EQS SUV will likely hit dealerships as a 2024 model. It will be the ultra-luxury sub-brand's first electric vehicle.
The prototype lacks many of the exterior details that typically define Maybach, such as flashy wheels, extra chrome, and unique badging, but at the bottom of the front mask, a grille pattern inspired by Maybach's signature pinstripe suit can be found in part. This area is more of an eggcrate design in the regular EQS SUV.
Maybach already previewed this design on a concept car last fall. In addition to the pinstripe grille, the concept had a two-tone paint job. The concept also featured two rows of seats (the regular EQS SUVs offer a third row), with the second row seating four people, consisting of two independent seats. This might be offered as a special option for the Chinese market, where having an individual driver is not uncommon.
The front of the car would feature Mercedes' 56-inch HyperScreen Control Interface, which integrates multiple screens into a single unit. The screens should depict Maybach's own graphics, and we may even see a better sound system than the already impressive Dolby Atmos system offered in the regular EQS SUV.
The Maybach EQS SUV may also offer performance upgrades such as increased power and range. The regular EQS SUV is best suited for the EQS 580 grade, which features a dual-motor all-wheel drive system with 536 hp and 633 lb-ft of torque; the only battery announced for the EQS SUV is a 107.8 kwh unit that is estimated to travel up to 300 miles on a single charge. It is estimated to travel up to 300 miles on a single charge.
A Maybach version of the EQS hatchback should appear eventually.
Since its 2014 relaunch, Maybach has been positioned as a sub-brand selling more luxurious versions of existing Mercedes products; the goal is still to launch a standalone Maybach after the ill-fated 57 and 62 sedans that were discontinued in 2012, and EV platform flexibility could be just the ticket. Smooth, quiet electric propulsion would be a natural fit for a brand like Maybach.
Before the Maybach EV arrives, the Maybach sub-brand will likely unveil its latest SL convertible. The concept was teased in May and should be unveiled later this year. Also planned is an update to the Maybach GLS-Class.