Mercedes' electric vehicle lineup continues to expand. The German company is already considered a leader in the electric car market, but the brand's ambitious plans include impressive launches like the Mercedes EQG. The electric sibling of the iconic G-Class will be a pioneer in the sector. Its development is already underway, and we can now begin to learn the first technical details of this electric SUV.
The Stuttgart-based company took a big risk with the EQG. Replacing the Mercedes G-Class and making it electric is a major step. Even if you don't see many G-Classes on the road, the SUV has become the most sought-after accessory for celebrities and the wealthy worldwide. Its imposing appearance is less and less associated with off-road driving, but it still possesses qualities that are difficult for its competitors to beat.
The highly anticipated electric version, the Mercedes EQG, has been confirmed for 2025. Mercedes has given itself considerable leeway in developing a product that is expected to be a game-changer. The German automaker is preparing a host of technical innovations for what will be the most spectacular model in its EQ range. Unlike other models such as the Mercedes EQS SUV, the EQG will feature numerous customized components, from the motors and chassis to the battery structure.
The basis of the EQG is a modified version of the existing Mercedes-Benz G-Class ladder chassis, which has been completely reworked to support the additional weight of the battery.
The electric G-Class, which was previewed as a concept car at the Munich Motor Show last year, is expected to be powered by a quartet of electric motors - two at the front and two integrated into the rear axle, each with its own fixed-ratio gearbox.
The Mercedes-Benz Concept EQG will indeed be a true off-road vehicle.
The Mercedes EQG will take its place at the top of the electric SUV pedestal.
The Mercedes EQG will be built on a platform that blends traditional and modern elements. Its chassis is capable of handling typical off-road driving while also accommodating a new generation of batteries. Developed in partnership with the American company Sila Nanotechnologies, the new battery features a silicon anode which, along with other chemical modifications to the cells, contributes to a 20 to 40 percent increase in energy density, exceeding 800Wh/l at the cell level, compared to the batteries used in the existing EQ model range, which employ the more common graphite anodes. Reducing the battery's weight is crucial; otherwise, the EQG could surpass three tons, posing a significant range issue.
Mercedes aims to reduce the battery size while increasing its capacity to provide sufficient electric range for off-road driving and handling like a conventional passenger car. While no range estimates have been released, four electric motors have been reported. Next-generation axial-flow motors improve performance and efficiency. Power figures have also not been disclosed, but high numbers, exceeding 500 horsepower, are expected. Software developed by Mercedes will allow the motors to simulate the effect of the three differential locks found on the internal combustion engine-powered G-Class models.
Sources close to the project told Autocar that the EQG will be unique even in its control software. Engineers are working tirelessly to ensure the electric SUV is capable of a triple differential lock similar to that of the gasoline-powered model. This is absolutely essential for tackling challenging terrain with ease. There will be many surprises, including the ability to roll over like a tank. We will gradually learn more details and new features, which will certainly be numerous.
The future Mercedes-Benz EQG should therefore be the first model to receive the company's new high-silicon battery, which will increase range in a compact package.
Insiders have confirmed that the electric SUV, slated for a 2025 launch, was initially reserved for the battery technology previewed by the EQXX one-off sedan concept recently unveiled at Autocar. This technology will then be used in other upcoming EQ models.
Mercedes-Benz claims that its new cell chemistry allows it to store "more electrical energy in a given space than is currently possible." This will enable it to increase the range of its future models without having to use larger capacity batteries.
The prototype battery used by the EQXX is said to have a capacity of 100 kWh, compared to the 90 kWh and 107.8 kWh batteries currently available for the EQS. The EQXX battery is estimated to weigh 495 kg.
The basis of the EQG is a modified version of the existing Mercedes-Benz G-Class ladder chassis, which has been completely reworked to support the additional weight of the battery.
The electric G-Class, which was previewed as a concept car at the Munich Motor Show last year, is expected to be powered by a quartet of electric motors - two at the front and two integrated into the rear axle, each with its own fixed-ratio gearbox.
