Next-Gen Mercedes-Benz S-Class to Adopt Hybrid-Electric Intelligence Strategy and Bring Back Physical Buttons

Mercedes-Benz Chief Technology Officer Markus Schäfer stated that the next-generation S-Class will reintroduce physical buttons to strike a balance between technological sophistication and traditional luxury. The current mid-cycle refresh of the S-Class has already partially restored physical buttons on the steering wheel, and the next-generation model will further expand this design approach. The new vehicle will also deeply incorporate Chinese users' aesthetic preferences and cultural tastes while preserving the brand’s century-old design language of elegance. Schäfer also disclosed technical details of Mercedes-Benz’s “Intelligence Parity” strategy for the first time, noting that achieving advanced intelligent driving capabilities in internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles is more complex than in electric vehicles (EVs). Mercedes-Benz aims to achieve high consistency between ICE and EV models in terms of design and intelligent driving experience, realizing parity in intelligence, design, and luxury across both powertrains. This strategy is supported by collaboration with Chinese tech firm Momenta and Mercedes-Benz’s intelligent driving R&D teams in Beijing and Shanghai, with mass production expected by 2027.