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Mercedes-Benz Unveils Its Poshest Electric Car—And It Has A Nap Mode
By Ell Ko, 10 Aug 2021
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Image via Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz’s new electric car, a rework of the signature S-Class sedan, might just take the cake for the most luxurious battery-powered vehicle yet, at least for now.
Described as a “luxurious and avant-garde top-of-the-range model”, the EQS is a showcase of the digitization of the automotive industry, a move made by many other industry players, not just Mercedes.
An intelligent system that’s much more than a GPS
An example of the luxe offerings this vehicle brings is its central computerized system. The MBUX Hyperscreen is a three-screen system dubbed “both the brain and nervous system of the car” and covers the entire dashboard, stretching from the driver’s side window all the way to the passenger’s. There’s also the option to get the base model, which retains only the center screen for a more classic look.
Image via Mercedes-Benz
Contributing to the “seamless entry experience,” the EQS also oversees the doors. When the driver approaches the car, the door handles extend, and the door itself opens automatically as it detects the person drawing closer. From the inside, a press of the brake pedal closes the door. And, of course, these can all be maneuvered from the Hyperscreen control center, too.
Encompassing both the active and the passive
Not only is the EQS primed for the optimal driving experience, but it also indulges in rest too: ‘Power Nap’ mode. The program’s three phases—falling asleep, sleeping, and waking up—are supported by the car adjusting to re-energize the driver during a short break at a service area or charging station.
In Power Nap mode, the driver’s seat is reclined into a rest position, sunshade drawn shut, air ionization activated, and ambient lighting switched on. The control dock helps too, displaying a starry sky and playing music to lull sleep in.
Upon waking up, the soundscape changes to a more refreshing, energizing tune, and the seat will massage drivers as they shake off the snooze. There’s even a fragrance to be wafted through the air.
Image via Mercedes-Benz
This comes as part of the Energizing Comfort concept that the EQS has its foundations in. Three new programs come in an ‘Energizing Nature’ sound experience lineup: ‘Forest Glade’, ‘Sounds of the Sea’, and ‘Summer Rain’. ‘Energizing Coach’ works with a linked compatible smartwatch or fitness track to recommend more “moodsxv based on the user’s current state for a truly personal, customized experience.
Two types of EQS will be offered: the rear-wheel-drive 329 horsepower EQS 450+, and the all-wheel-drive 516 horsepower EQS 580. Although Mercedes-Benz hasn't confirmed pricing for the range, CNN reports that it's expected to exceed US$100,000 when the EQS goes live for sale in the US this fall.
Image via Mercedes-Benz
Image via Mercedes-Benz
[via CNN, image via Mercedes-Benz]
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