The electric vehicle (EV) market is accelerating faster than ever in 2024. Two major players leading the charge are Mercedes-Benz with their flagship EQS sedan, and EV pioneer Tesla with their full suite of vehicles. So how does the technology, performance and overall ownership experience of the Mercedes EQS stack up against Tesla’s product line? Let’s take a detailed look.
Overview of the Mercedes EQS
As Mercedes‘ first dedicated all-electric luxury sedan, expectations were high for the EQS leading up to its 2021 launch. It aimed to bring the company‘s trademark high-end design and comfortable driving dynamic to the EV segment. Early reviews have been mostly positive.
According to J.D. Power‘s latest electric vehicle owner satisfaction survey, the Mercedes EQS ranks very highly for comfort, interior quality and safety features. Particularly praiseworthy elements included the cabin spaciousness, lavish materials and game-changing Hyperscreen dashboard spanning door-to-door. This enabled Mercedes to edge out Tesla in some key areas like quality and design. However, there‘s still more to unpack when weighing up the Mercedes EQS versus Tesla lineup overall.
The Mercedes EQS features a futuristic hyperscreen dashboard – via Mercedes-Benz
Here‘s a snapshot of key Mercedes EQS specs:
- Battery size: 108kWh
- Range: Up to 350 miles
- 0-60 mph acceleration: 4.1 seconds
- Horsepower: 516 hp (429kW)
- Maximum speed: 130 mph (209 km/h)
- Charging time: 10-80% in 31 minutes (200kW DC fast charging)
- Price: Starts at $105,550
Now let‘s explore how those EQS performance metrics and features stack up against Tesla’s sedan, the Model S, plus the rest of their EV model range.
EQS vs Tesla Model S
As flagship luxury sedans in their respective electric vehicle lineups, the Mercedes EQS and Tesla Model S draw the closest parallels for comparison. Each vehicle brings unique strengths.
Acceleration and Handling
While no sluggish ride, the EQS is geared more towards smooth, quiet comfort than neck-straining speed. It can still crack 0-60 mph in just 4.1 seconds thanks to the 516 hp generated from its dual motors. The well-balanced chassis navigates corners with precision.
Meanwhile, raw acceleration is a Tesla strong suit. In its highest Model S Plaid trim, the 1,020 hp engine propels you from 0-60 in a blistering 2.3 seconds – making it the fastest accelerating production sedan yet tested by Motortrend. The lower tier Model S Long Range is marginally slower at 3.7 seconds 0-60. Tesla‘s lower center of gravity, suspension and dynamic torque distribution gives them exceptional handling by EV standards too. So Tesla takes the cake on driving performance.
Winner: Tesla Model S
Tesla Model S Plaid sets blistering acceleration records – via Tesla
Range & Charging
The EQS 450+ RWD model achieves an impressive 350 miles range on a full charge – beating out most EV rivals. Thanks to its sleek design shape with industry-leading 0.20 drag coefficient, plus sophisticated thermal systems minimizing battery energy loss, it sets the pace for efficiency.
But in higher spec versions, Tesla still edges ahead. The $106,190 Model S Long Range touts 405 miles range, while the Model S Plaid squeezes out 390 miles from its 100kWh battery. Tesla also operates its vast proprietary Supercharger network enabling hyper fast charging for road trips. Mercedes relies on third party networks which can be more inconsistent in performance. Overall Tesla enjoys advantages in driving distance and charging infrastructure.
Winner: Tesla Model S
Design & Comfort
Beauty lies in the eye of the beholder, but the consensus is that the EQS exterior styling is a triumph. Its gentle curves and crystal-like grille give an elegant, graceful presence. Inside, the game-changing MBUX Hyperscreen and jungle-themed ambient lighting project the cabin of the future. Supremely comfortable front seats, abundant space in the back and exceptional noise insulation seal the deal.
Tesla takes a polar opposite, function-first minimalist approach. Yet the smooth Model S exterior lines still hold undeniable curb appeal echoed inside. Relentless focus on maximizing both storage and passenger space pays dividends. Seats provide decent cushioning too. But ultimately, the EQS sets new standards of luxury that Tesla can‘t match.
Winner: Mercedes EQS
Autonomous Driving Tech
As EV pioneers, Tesla boasts a formidable 10+ years perfecting autonomous functionality. Their autos steer, change lanes, adjust speed and self-park reliably based on camera, GPS and sensor inputs. Full Self Driving mode available as a $15,000 add-on literally drives itself in many situations but requires attentive human monitoring.
Comparatively, the EQS Driver Assistance Package also enables automated steering, speed regulation, lane changes and parking but in fewer scenarios. The Drive Pilot mode enabling hands-free highway driving won‘t be activated until regulatory approval. While undoubtedly impressive, Mercedes hasn’t yet matched Tesla’s expertise and track record here.
Winner: Tesla Model S
Price
In base trim, the Mercedes EQS undercuts the Model S pricing, starting around $10,000 cheaper at $106,500. However, tack on essentials like all-wheel drive, premium styling and range upgrades and they soon enter similar territory. Ultimately both these elite electric flagships demand around $120,000+ for primo configurations. Compared to six-figure gas-powered S-Classes though, the EQS costs only marginally extra upfront while delivering massive lifetime fuel savings.
Winner: Tie
EQS vs Other Tesla Models
The Model S rightfully garners most comparison focus with the Mercedes EQS as Tesla’s luxury EV challenger. But highlighting metrics against Tesla’s remaining Model 3, Model Y and Model X line-up gives helpful additional context too.
Tesla Model 3
- The Model 3 sells as Tesla’s compact and affordably priced EV at just $42,690 starting. Compared to the much larger, luxurious EQS, they clearly don’t compete directly. The Model 3 touts sporty handling with brisk acceleration, but a considerably shorter range. It‘s geared towards value rather than opulence. Verdict – no contest.
Tesla Model Y
- Like the Model 3, the Model Y adopts similar capability in a small crossover SUV package. With even zippier acceleration and AWD capabilities plus seating for 7, it aligns better for families than the EQS. But again, hugely outclassed for comfort and refinement by the Mercedes flagship. Another very different proposition.
Tesla Model X
- This comes closest to a true apples-to-apples SUV counterpart to the Mercedes EQS sedan. While the EQS exhibits more impressive innovation inside to wow passengers, the Model X offers greater practicality. Its infamous Falcon Wing doors ease access, road tripping range reaches 375 miles, and it fits up to 7 occupants. If SUV practicality holds higher priority than leading-edge luxury, the Model X brings real appeal.
In summary when comparing beyond Tesla‘s Model S sedan, the EQS clearly plays in a totally different league focused on high-end refinement rather than affordability or utility. Prospective buyers typically wouldn‘t cross-shop between those models.
Recent EV Charging Developments
Industry moves are afoot that could shift the EV charging equation in owners’ favor – especially for Mercedes. In June 2023, General Motors declared plans to adopt Tesla’s North American charging plug standard on upcoming models, following Ford’s lead. The common plug means GM and Ford EVs can tap into Tesla’s vast existing national charging network. More options for Mercedes drivers could follow.
Mercedes EQS models already can use Tesla Superchargers with an adapter. If Mercedes likewise migrates fully to Tesla’s plug architecture, or Tesla opens its stations for all, EQS owners would unlock 12,000 more compatible charging points nationally early in 2024, growing to 17,000 stations by 2025. That’s a game-changer for charging accessibility and convenience during road trips.
For potential Mercedes EQS buyers nervous about current recharging availability versus Teslas, this upcoming herd move may provide some reassurance.
Energy Efficiency & Sustainability
As electric vehicles, both the Mercedes EQS and Tesla lineup already deliver huge efficiency and sustainability upside over gas-powered alternatives. But within the EV segment, comparing energy conservation performance remains informative. And the numbers show EQS embracing the edge.
Engineers sweated over every aerodynamic detail of the EQS exterior design to achieve a remarkably low 0.20 drag coefficient – translating to smoother air slipperiness. This advanced wind cheating shape hugely boosts highway driving efficiency and range. Supplemental cooling and heating systems also carefully regulate temperature impact on battery drain. Regenerative braking further captures energy normally lost decelerating to recharge batteries slightly.
While no fuel-burning slouch, the Model S efficiency fails to match these standards. At 0.208 drag coefficient, it trails the EQS in aerodynamics. Industry experts also rate the Mercedes’ superior insulation and finely calibrated heating controls as up to 30% more efficient that the Tesla’s. All said, for eco-conscious executives, the EQS delivers standout frugal performance.
Cost of Ownership Comparison
Upfront sticker prices certainly grab attention, but drilling deeper into likely lifetime ownership costs gives better insight into differences between the Mercedes and Tesla lineup. And here the EQS holds some advantages.
According to Recurrent Auto research, EVs generally cost around 50-70% less to fuel and maintain over comparable gas models. But among top EV makes alone, variances persist. Recurrent‘s data shows Mercedes EV battery packs experiencing failure rates of just 4% within 5 years, compared to 11% of Tesla batteries needing repair or replacement. Out-of-warranty Mercedes electric drivetrain issues also appear around 15% less common per vehicle than Tesla.
Of course lifetime costs hinge heavily on battery longevity. Mercedes provides an industry-leading 10 years / 625,000 km battery capacity warranty on the EQS to ease owners‘ minds. Combined with exceptionally low degradation projections for its lithium-ion chemistry, most EQS batteries should still deliver 70%+ capacity even after 200,000km. Tesla‘s 8 years / 192,000 km battery warranty lags somewhat behind.
Factoring in lower projected maintenance costs and stronger battery warranties, the overall EQS cost of ownership argument holds real appeal next to Teslas competitors.
Mercedes EQS vs Teslas: Key Takeaways
- The Mercedes EQS delivers a more luxurious, innovative and serene driving experience versus Tesla models, but can‘t match performance stats of the highest-end Model S Plaid.
- Tesla vehicles retain advantages in raw acceleration, overall range and access to convenient Supercharger fast charging network.
- Based on lower projected maintenance issues reported and higher 10-year battery warranty, Mercedes EQS may achieve lower lifetime ownership costs compared to Teslas.
- For all-around eco-efficiency combining supreme aerodynamics, smart thermal controls and regenerative braking, Mercedes has engineered the EQS as an elite EV.
- With common plug standards on the horizon, Mercedes EQS owners can expected greatly expanded national charging infrastructure accessibility similar to Tesla vehicles within 2 years.
So while the comparisons reveal a close split decision in areas of contrast, there‘s no uniformly superior option between the Mercedes and Tesla offerings. Each brand and model brings their own unique blend of strengths and weaknesses. Much depends whether your priority leans more towards envelope-pushing luxury or sheer performance. Personal test drives can help identify the best fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does Mercedes EQS compare to Tesla Model X?
A: The Tesla Model X SUV offers more passenger and cargo capacity than the EQS sedan, but far less lavish comfort and interior innovation. Shoppers focused on practicality may prefer the Model X, while the EQS better serves luxury priorities.
Comparable range and acceleration capabilities make both strong road trip options. The EQS boasts advantages in sleeker aerodynamic design contributing to efficiency. Model X allows seating for up to 7 occupants, while EQS fits 5 passengers in superior comfort.
Q: What about Mercedes EQS versus more affordable Tesla Model 3?
A: As Tesla‘s lowest priced model designed for mass-market appeal, the Model 3 sells for around 60% less than the flagship Mercedes EQS. The Model 3 provides brisk performance and low running costs for an EV, but matches neither the luxury or innovation of the Mercedes. Lacking any close comparability, most customers would not consider these models as alternatives.
Q: How does Mercedes EQS compare to Tesla Model Y small SUV?
A: Similar to the Model 3, the compact Tesla Model Y crossover features a much lower cost mainstream variant lacking any true parallels to the prestige EQS. While no performance slouch, the 2 row Model Y seats just 5 passengers in comfort far short of the lavish Mercedes sedan. The EQS outpaces it significantly on interior refinement and pedigree as well. Not really an apples-to-apples evaluation.
Q: What are the main pros and cons between Mercedes EQS and Tesla Model S?
A: Advantages of the Mercedes EQS over the Tesla Model S include:
- More luxurious, innovative, comfortable and quieter cabin.
- Lower projected maintenance and battery replacement costs.
- Improved energy efficiency from industry-leading aerodynamics and insulation.
Advantages of the Tesla Model S over the Mercedes EQS:
- Quicker acceleration and handling with available dual-motor AWD
- Slightly higher driving range estimates
- Larger established Supercharger fast charging network
- More advanced Autopilot self-driving software
Q: How does Mercedes EQS compare to full Tesla lineup?
A: The EQS most closely rivals the Tesla Model S luxury EV sedan, with some key distinctions in performance, efficiency and ownership costs. In comparisons to other Tesla models, the Mercedes classes well above the Model 3 and Model Y in luxury features and refinement. Against the larger Model X SUV, the EQS prioritizes driving comfort over passenger and cargo utility.
Mercedes has very purposefully developed its flagship EQS EV to surpass Teslas in aspects like cabin innovation, noise control and ride smoothness – while still delivering competitive range and acceleration. Tesla vehicles retain an edge in total performance and infrastructure thanks to the vast Supercharger network. So alignments to personal priorities can help determine whether the EQS or Tesla models make the best match.
