Mercedes unveils electric luxury SUV with off-road prowess
The Mercedes-EQG is an electrified interpretation of the Mercedes G-Class SUV. This concept vehicle retains the boxy shape of its namesake while incorporating unique features such as recreated door handles and the distinctive door noise during closing. Instead of a spare tire located at the rear hatch, an onboard storage box can accommodate the charging cable.
Mercedes plans to produce a version based on the EQG concept and has announced plans to test the vehicle on the same Austrian mountainside trail used for G-Class models with internal combustion engines. The EQG will feature separate electric motors for each wheel to allow maximum control over the four-wheel drive.
Mercedes also introduced the Mercedes-Maybach EQS, a large luxury SUV primarily designed for on-road use. Mercedes-Maybach is the ultra-luxury sub-brand from the automaker, with models and prices rivaling those of Bentley.
The Maybach EQS SUV features a glass roof that covers the entire dash, creating the impression of a large touchscreen. The exterior showcases a two-tone paint finish, which is an optional feature with Mercedes-Maybach models. Similar to the EQS limousine, the automatic doors will open when the driver approaches. Mercedes plans to begin production of the large electric SUV – the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV – in 2022, with the Maybach-SUV set to follow.
The Mercedes-AMG EQS, unveiled last Sunday, is a high-performance version of the Mercedes-EQS limousine. Mercedes-AMG is the high-performance sub-brand from Mercedes, offering a concept vehicle and marking the debut of a fully electric AMG series model.
The AMG EQS features two high-performance electric motors, one for the front and one for the rear, with a combined power output of 649 PS. Through a special Race Start Mode, the vehicle can briefly increase its power to 751 PS. The electric motor in this vehicle is specifically designed for high-performance situations.
To enhance the largely silent driving experience, Mercedes designers have introduced custom soundscapes. The sound varies depending on the selected driving mode (Comfort, Sport, or Sport+). In sport mode, the vehicle makes a faint sparking noise with distant exhaust tones during acceleration. In Sport+ mode, the sound becomes more aggressive, resembling that of a combustion engine.
Mercedes has also planned an electric variant of the G-Class Geländewagen and will launch it as the EQG. This will further expand the Mercedes' electric vehicle portfolio.
The EQG is not just limited to on-road use but also will be tested off-road and may even be utilized for off-roading purposes. Mercedes will be among the first manufacturers to introduce a fully electric off-road vehicle into the market.
Additional Insights:
- The EQG will feature a quad-motor, all-wheel drive system with real-time torque adjustments and advanced 4×4 capabilities, enhancing its performance on various terrains[1].
- The EQG includes features such as low-range gear simulation, high ground clearance, underbody protection, virtual diffs, and intelligent off-road crawl for superior off-road capabilities[1].
- The interior of the EQG is equipped with Mercedes-Benz's signature luxury and modern EV technology, featuring MBUX infotainment, premium leather and wood trims, an advanced digital cockpit, and customizable ambient lighting[4].
- The EQG also features advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including adaptive cruise control, active blind-spot assist, cross-traffic alert, and off-road driving assist with real-time terrain mapping[4].
Sources:
