Mercedes-Benz Focuses on Aerodynamics to Boost Efficiency and Range

Mercedes-Benz showcases aerodynamics in EQS, EQE, and VISION EQXX with record-low drag coefficients, improving efficiency and range for electric vehicles.

Aerodynamics have long been one of Mercedes-Benz’s strong suits, but today they play an even greater role — especially for electric vehicles. The company is steadily reducing drag coefficients, directly impacting range and energy consumption.

The flagship EQS sedan achieves a Cd as low as 0.20, one of the best figures among production cars, while the EQE follows closely at around 0.22. These results are made possible not just by the sleek body shape but by a suite of measures: a carefully smoothed underbody, active grille shutters, aerodynamic wheel designs, and suspension that lowers the car at higher speeds.

The VISION EQXX concept set a new benchmark with a Cd of 0.17. In real-world testing, it traveled more than 1,000 km on a single charge, proving that aerodynamics are not just numbers but a key to efficiency.

Comparisons with competitors confirm Mercedes’ position near the top: the Tesla Model S posts a Cd of 0.208, the Porsche Taycan 0.22, and the Audi e-tron GT 0.24. This keeps EQS and EQE among the most streamlined production cars available.

Historically, the brand has been ahead of its time — from the W125 Rekordwagen that set speed records in 1938 to the CLA 180 BlueEFFICIENCY and the A-Class Sedan, both once hailed as leaders in production-car aerodynamics. Now, Mercedes is transferring lessons from the VISION EQXX to its upcoming MMA platform and Concept CLA, aiming for best-in-class efficiency. While no specific future Cd numbers have been announced, the direction is clear: even lower drag and longer driving ranges are on the horizon.