Mercedes-Benz has pulled the covers off a new battery-powered SUV crossover concept called Generation EQ at the Paris Motor Show, describing it as “close to production”.
The Generation EQ previews a new scalable architecture for battery-electric vehicles across a range of future Mercedes-Benz models. The wheelbase and track width, as well as all other system components like batteries, are variable components in a modular building-block system. Daimler suggests that one single basic architecture could be suitable for SUVs, saloons, coupés, cabriolets and other body styles in a variety of sizes. Like the latest generation of Mercedes-Benz production models, the new platform uses a mix of steel, aluminium and carbon fibre in different roles to maximise strength and minimise weight.
As well as being the name of the concept car, the EQ branding will be used for future battery-electric Mercedes-Benz models. EQ stands for ‘electric intelligence’. Daimler describes the principle as extending beyond the vehicles into broader issues of electric mobility, such as charging systems, home storage units and wallboxes.
The concept is powered by two electric motors – one for each of the front and rear axles, to deliver all-wheel-drive traction. The lithium-ion battery is built into the vehicle floor. Mercedes-Benz claims a total power output of 300kW (407hp), with 700Nm of torque. Range is claimed to be up to 500km (320 miles).
The company describes the concept’s styling as ‘electro-look’, with an emphasis on stripping back the design to bare elements and minimising visual interference. Panel joins are scarcely visible, windscreen wipers and door handles have been concealed, and – like most contemporary concept cars – wing mirrors have been binned in favour of cameras. The end result is described as a monolithic look, and the intent is for much of the direction to filter down to future production vehicles.
Internal design emphasises touch-sensitive controls and no physical buttons or switches apart from the electric seats. The driver faces a 24-inch widescreen display, which displays all necessary information across different stages of the screen and can be reconfigured to personal preference. The screen is controlled by touch-sensitive elements on the steering wheel rather than from the screen itself.
The centre console is a separate touchscreen for operating the climate control and infotainment systems. Even door handles and window lifters are touch-sensitive controls rather than physical levers or switches. The four individual seats have speakers integrated into each headrest. Rear passengers can watch screens integrated into the rear of the front seats.
The exterior features LED lighting for not only head and tail lights, but also for illuminating the three-pointed-star logo. Strips of blue LED light also provide “a light show with exciting touches of colour”.
The Generation EQ concept also previews autonomous and connected technologies, integrated into range and economy information to advise the driver of charging facilities and local attractions within range.
