SEOUL, July 25 (Korea Bizwire) – In a bold move to redefine ultra-luxury in the electric vehicle era, Mercedes-Benz has introduced its first all-electric Maybach SUV to the South Korean market.
The unveiling of the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV on July 25 at the XYZ Seoul cultural complex in Seongdong-gu, Seoul, marks a significant milestone for the German automaker’s top-tier brand.
South Korea, Mercedes-Benz’s fourth-largest market globally and second-largest for Maybach specifically, continues to be a crucial battleground for luxury car manufacturers.
The importance of this launch was underscored by the presence of Daniel Lescow, head of Mercedes-Maybach, along with Mathias Vaitl, president and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Korea, and Kilian Tellen, vice president.
First previewed at last year’s Shanghai Auto Show, the Maybach EQS SUV embodies what the company calls “Sophisticated Luxury.”
It aims to set a new benchmark in the premium electric vehicle segment, adhering to the philosophy of Maybach founder Karl Maybach that “what is good must also be beautiful.”
“The Maybach EQS SUV aspires to ultimate and absolute luxury in the electrification era,” said Vaitl during the event. “It represents our commitment to maintaining the Maybach brand identity in the electric car age, promising the highest level of electric driving experience.”
The vehicle’s exterior seamlessly blends Mercedes’ electric vehicle design language with distinctive Maybach branding elements. However, it’s the interior that truly sets this SUV apart. Lescow emphasized the “astonishing level of comfort” offered by the vehicle.
The cabin features Maybach-exclusive nappa leather seats and the MBUX Hyperscreen, which combines three displays into one expansive unit. The rear seats, in particular, have been lavished with high-end amenities.
These include ventilation, massage, and heating functions, along with executive seats that can recline up to 43.5 degrees. A chauffeur package allows passengers to massage their calves and adjust the front passenger seat.
Two 11.6-inch HD touchscreens and a 7-inch MBUX tablet cater to rear passengers’ entertainment needs. The MBUX Interior Assistant, which responds to hand gestures, adds another layer of sophistication.
To ensure a serene ride, Mercedes has employed special acoustic foam, double-glazed windows, and underbody panels to minimize noise and vibration. A Dolby Atmos-enabled sound system with 15 high-performance speakers completes the luxurious audio experience.
Performance-wise, the Maybach EQS SUV accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds and boasts a range of 612 km (WLTP standard). It comes equipped with air suspension that can raise the vehicle by up to 25mm and rear-axle steering for enhanced maneuverability.
Mercedes-Benz is expected to start deliveries of the new vehicle next month.
Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)