Mercedes-Benz EQS set for second overhaul with steer-by-wire and ultra-fast charging

April 9, 2026 John Mahoney

Mercedes-Benz is preparing another major overhaul for its flagship EQS electric limousine as it looks to ensure it isn’t outclassed by cheaper, more advanced rivals.

Following on from the 2024 update — which introduced more traditional front-end styling, interior tweaks and a larger battery — the next round of upgrades is expected to be far more comprehensive.

Teasing the changes, the German brand has confirmed the EQS will adopt next-generation steer-by-wire technology, replacing the conventional steering system with a yoke-style wheel.

By removing the mechanical link between the steering wheel and front wheels, Mercedes says the system delivers a more “precise, intuitive steering feel”.

It also cuts lock-to-lock rotation to just 170 degrees – less than half a turn of the wheel – eliminating the need for hand-over-hand steering and allowing drivers to keep their grip fixed on the wheel. The idea is to improve both comfort and safety.

Mercedes-Benz EQS development car with steer-by-wire technology. — Adapting steer-by-wire technology to the flagship Mercedes-Benz EV would allow for a unique steering wheel that only spins through 170 degrees.

The lack of a physical connection also removes vibrations being transmitted through the steering wheel, further boosting refinement.

The technology brings packaging benefits too, with the removal of a traditional steering rack freeing up space for a larger front-mounted electric motor.

Mercedes says steer-by-wire will also reduce development complexity for left- and right-hand-drive vehicles.

Safety has been a major focus, with the system relying on dual signal paths. In the event of a failure, the EQS can be brought to a safe stop using a combination of stability cointrol (a Mercedes-Benz invention) and rear-wheel steering.

More than one million kilometres of real-world testing have already been completed to validate the system.

Beyond steering, the EQS will also receive a major technology upgrade inside, including a new infotainment system running the latest operating system from the brand’s new-generation CLA.

Exterior tweaks are also expected, including redesigned headlamps with signature star-pattern lighting graphics.

However, the biggest upgrade could be under the skin, with the EQS tipped to adopt 800-volt electrical architecture — dramatically cutting charging times to around 16 minutes for a 10–80 per cent top-up.