Mercedes-Benz has unveiled its first ultra-luxury battery-electric vehicle, the Maybach EQS SUV, at the Shanghai Auto Show. The new model is priced at around $200,000, in line with other Maybach models, and boasts a driving range of 600 kilometers on a single charge.
The Maybach EQS SUV features massage chairs for both front and rear passengers, as well as generous screens, making it a comfortable and luxurious ride. "The Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV unites our ambition to lead in digital and electric with our focus on the luxury segment," said Mercedes CEO, Ola Källenius, in a statement.
The new model is part of Mercedes' push to expand its luxury offering, as it looks to maintain strong results in a challenging market. Last year, Mercedes-Maybach sales increased by 37% to a record 22,600 vehicles, with strong demand in China, where over 1,100 cars were sold each month.
The Maybach EQS SUV is based on the same platform as the Mercedes EQS SUV, and offers a cocoon-like experience in the rear seats, which is particularly important to buyers in China who are often chauffeur-driven. The back seat center console can include two folding tables, a cooling compartment, and silver-plated champagne goblets, making it the ultimate luxury experience.
German carmakers, including Mercedes, Volkswagen, and BMW, are facing increasing competition from local EV makers in China, including BYD, which is set to overtake Volkswagen AG this year as the country's top vehicle maker. All three German automakers are heavily reliant on China, the world's largest auto market.
The Maybach EQS SUV represents an important milestone for Mercedes as it looks to establish itself as a leader in the luxury EV market. With its cutting-edge technology and luxurious features, the Maybach EQS SUV is sure to appeal to deep-pocketed buyers in China and around the world.