Mercedes-Benz has unveiled an electric SUV concept at the Beijing Motor Show pointing directly to the future of the brand’s Maybach luxury division.
The Mercedes-Maybach Vision Ultimate Luxury is unlikely to ever reach a showroom in its present form, but does give strong clues as to the look of a forthcoming Mercedes-Maybach model designed to target the likes of the Bentley Bentayga. This is expected to be based on the next Mercedes-Benz GLS.
According to Mercedes chief design officer Gorden Wagener, the Ultimate Luxury is an entirely new kind of vehicle. “Our concept combines the DNA of an SUV with that of a saloon to produce an ultra-modern SUV of three-box design,” he says. “With sensuality and pure sophistication, we have created a timeless vehicle that underscores the position of Mercedes-Maybach as the ultimate luxury brand.”
The concept is larger than its perceived Bentayga rival in all respects, measuring nearly 5.3m long, more than 2.1m wide and just under 1.8m high, sitting on enormous 24-inch wheels. Its designers say that a priority was to transfer the design of a saloon into SUV architecture to provide the raised driving position that customers want for a feeling of greater security.
Four electric motors comprise the drivetrain, one to each wheel providing all-wheel-drive capability and a combined output of 750hp. The 80kWh battery is accommodated under the car’s flat floor, and is said to give a range of more than 200 miles with an electronically limited top speed of 155mph.
Charging capacity is quoted at 350kWh and Mercedes claims that the charger can add an extra 60 miles of range in just five minutes.
Inside the Ultimate Luxury is themed primarily as a chauffeur’s car with the focus on the rear-seat passengers, the high-quality trim featuring extensive leather, aluminium and even rose gold detailing, much of it hand finished.
The minimalist cockpit layout is centred on two 12-inch displays similar to those seen on other recent Mercedes-Benz models.
