Mercedes EQS Facelift 2026: 800V Architecture, In-House Motors, and a Star in the Headlights
By OFOKI TECH | August 12, 2026
Mercedes-Benz is preparing a second facelift for the EQS, its flagship electric sedan. The updated model, expected to debut in 2026, will move to an 800-volt electrical architecture, adopt in-house electric motors, and feature a redesigned front end that integrates the Mercedes star logo into the headlight units. Spy shots of camouflaged test mules have been circulating since late 2025, and the technical details have gradually emerged from patent filings and supply chain sources.
From 400V to 800V
The current EQS uses a 400V architecture, which limits its maximum DC fast-charging speed to around 200kW. The facelifted model will switch to an 800V system, enabling charging speeds well above 200kW and reducing charging times by roughly 30% at compatible stations. The new architecture is internally designated EVA2M, a modified version of the EVA2 platform that underpins the current EQS and EQE.
The battery pack itself is expected to use new cell chemistry with higher energy density, though Mercedes has not disclosed specific capacity figures. The current EQS 450+ carries a 118kWh battery and achieves up to 350 miles of EPA range. The facelift could push that figure closer to 400 miles.
eATS 2.0: Mercedes Builds Its Own Motors
A significant change for the facelifted EQS is the adoption of Mercedes’ own eATS 2.0 electric drive units. The current EQS uses motors developed in partnership with suppliers. The eATS 2.0 motors are designed and manufactured in-house, featuring silicon carbide (SiC) power electronics for improved efficiency. Mercedes claims the new motors are more compact, lighter, and more efficient than the units they replace.
The eATS 2.0 system will likely debut on the EQS facelift before spreading to the rest of Mercedes’ electric lineup, including the EQE and the upcoming EQG electric G-Class.
The Star in the Headlights
Spy shots taken in Sweden and the United States show a redesigned front fascia with a full-width LED light bar and a prominent Mercedes three-pointed star integrated into the headlight clusters. CarBuzz reported that the star is illuminated and serves as both a daytime running light and a brand signature, similar to the approach Mercedes took with the facelifted E-Class and the new CLA.
The rear of the vehicle appears largely unchanged in spy photos, suggesting the facelift is focused on the front end, powertrain, and interior technology rather than a full body redesign.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the EQS facelift is expected to receive an updated version of Mercedes’ Hyperscreen, with faster processing and improved software. The current EQS has faced criticism for its complex infotainment system, and Mercedes is reportedly working to simplify the user interface.
The facelift will also likely introduce Mercedes’ latest driver assistance systems, including an updated version of Drive Pilot, the company’s Level 3 autonomous driving system that is currently approved for use on certain German highways and in Nevada and California.
Positioning and Competition
The EQS facelift arrives at a critical moment for Mercedes’ electric strategy. The current EQS has struggled to match the sales volume of the Tesla Model S and the BMW i7, particularly in the Chinese market. The facelift addresses two of the EQS’s biggest weaknesses: charging speed and the lack of a distinct Mercedes identity in the front-end design.
Pricing is expected to remain in the same range as the current model, which starts at around $104,000 in the United States. The facelifted EQS will likely debut at a major auto show in late 2026, with deliveries beginning in early 2027.
Sources and further reading