There is a whole suite of technology set to transform the way we drive in 2022 and beyond. Image: Daimler.

If you’re thinking about a new car, it’s an exciting time to be in the market. New technologies are already cascading through the Mercedes-Benz line-up that would have been considered the stuff of sci-fi novels just a few years ago.

Already, owners of many current Mercedes-Benz models can shift the radio station or climate control with a simple spoken command; set the ambient light to one of 64 colours; enjoy an in-seat massage; and let their car assist in tricky parking situations or regulate cruise-control settings to adjust to the traffic in front. These and many more tech-savvy functions make the process of driving significantly more relaxing, easy and safe.

So what can we expect from 2022 and beyond? With an inquisitive look over recent concept vehicles, and a little reading between the lines, some key trends and features emerge that could make their way into cars you’ll soon be able to purchase from a Mercedes-Benz retailer.

Display? Think big

Many current models already feature the dazzling widescreen cockpit configuration featuring wide digital displays with spectacular resolution, an array of customisation options and intuitive access to the multi-faceted MBUX infotainment system.

For the next step, think bigger – much bigger. The ‘Hyperscreen’, as Mercedes-Benz has dubbed it, is a configuration of three large, brilliant screens stretching from one side of the car to the other, seemingly forming a continuous display. In the forthcoming fully electric EQS luxury saloon, this will be a giant 141cm wide and is the undisputed focal point of the interior. Just as impressive is the tech behind the Hyperscreen – artificial intelligence with the advanced capability to learn and prioritise what’s important to the occupants, plus a ‘zero layer’ interface that ensures the most important functions are always closest to hand.

Parking made even easier

With some Mercedes-Benz vehicles already able to assist with parking under the driver’s watchful eye, plus a range of other assistants including the ‘eye in the sky’ 360° camera plus front and rear sensors with cameras, could parking be any easier? The answer is a resounding ‘yes’.

Mercedes-Benz has shown off a system in some markets that allows some models to be parked without anyone sitting in the car. Standing nearby and gently touching the screen on a connected device (for safety), the vehicle can self-manoeuvre into and out of parking spaces. There is also an option being developed for the car to valet-park itself, where associated infrastructure is installed. Though not approved for use in Australia and New Zealand, you can imagine pulling up at an airport lounge or hotel forecourt and instead of handing over your keys to a valet attendant, you simply watch as the vehicle drives itself away and manoeuvres into an available space to await your return.

Door service

This feature is like having an invisible attendant. As the driver approaches the vehicle, its flush-mounted door handles extend for easy access for all passengers. Moving closer, the driver’s door opens automatically, and then gently swings shut behind them.

Electric intelligence

It’s no secret that Mercedes-Benz is working towards an all-electric future under its Ambition 2039 initiative. Already, models such as the EQC SUV are equipped with drivetrains with silent, strong power delivery and fossil fuel-like driving range, complete with intelligent functions that make recharging simple and intuitive. That becomes even easier with forthcoming features such as Navigation with Electric Intelligence, which will feature in the EQE and EQS saloons. This not only plans the fastest and most convenient route including any charging stops, but also dynamically updates routes and range based on changes to traffic flow or driving style.

Of course, there are a number of advanced EV functions that may be less evident to the driver and passengers, but which contribute significantly to comfort, ease of use, economy and sustainability. For example, you can use a connected device to begin pre-warming or cooling the cabin before you start your trip. If the car is charging, the energy is drawn from the grid and doesn’t cost any driving range. And as part of the company's push for a carbon-neutral fleet by 2039, floor coverings in the EQS and EQE SUV contain a nylon yarn derived from recyclable materials such as fishing nets.

Vigilant about safety

Safety is always a high priority, of course, and vehicles fitted with the new Hyperscreen could be equipped with an enhanced ATTENTION ASSIST function that monitors the driver’s eyelid movement via a camera in the driver’s display, triggering a microsleep warning if needed.

As you might expect, there’s more to come – much more. Over the next year, and for the next decade and beyond, technology will continue to evolve and transform, creating innovations that will quickly become essential to our daily driving experience.

By Steve Colquhoun

*Some features may not be available in Australia at the time of publication due to legal or licensing limitations. Please visit your local authorised retailer or the Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 product page for up to date information on all EQS features and availability.