Mercedes-Benz has set a new benchmark for luxury electric vehicles with the 478-mile range offered from its new EQS saloon.

The new model will sit alongside the S-Class when it goes on sale in the UK in the summer. The first examples will arrive in the country before the end of the year.

The EQS uses a new generation of battery technology that has not previously been used in a Mercedes vehicle. With a usable capacity of 107.8kWh the car can provide up to 478 miles of range on a single charge.

It eclipses the current range leader, Tesla’s Model S Long Rage, by 66 miles.

The first model to arrive in the UK will be the rear-wheel-drive EQS450+. It produces 333PS, which is enough to deliver a 6.2-second 0-62mph acceleration time.

An all-wheel-drive EQS580 model has also been detailed, with a more potent 523PS output thanks to a twin-motor all-wheel-drive setup. An AMG version with more than 750PS is expected to follow.

When it comes to charging, the EQS450+ is capable of adding 186 miles of range in 15 minutes, using a 200kW rapid charger.

Mercedes claims the EQS is the most aerodynamic production car in the world, helping to boost its range and reduce unwanted cabin noise.

The EQS is based on a new modular platform designed specifically for electric vehicles. It rides on air suspension and features a four-wheel steering system to aid manoeuvrability.

Inside, the dashboard is dominated by the MBUX Hyperscreen, which combined three displays to provide a panoramic digital cockpit. There are digital instruments for the driver, a larger 17.7-inch central infotainment section and a separate display for the passenger. Rear-seat passengers can also benefit from a pair of 11.6-inch displays.

Connected services enable over-the-air software updates, while the system will also feature the ability to unlock or upgrade additional features.

As an option, the EQS can be fitted with automatic comfort doors at the front and rear. When the driver approaches the car, first of all the door handles extend. As they approach further, the driver's door opens automatically. The driver is also able to open the rear doors from the central touchscreen.

Prices and specifications for the EQS are yet to be revealed, but are expected close to the car’s on sale date in the summer.