Mercedes-Benz Concept EQ: The electric SUV of the Future

The Concept EQ is optimised for every requisite of a future-oriented, battery-electric model family. The new generation is based on an architecture created specially for battery-electric models, that can be utilised across all models: the track width, wheelbase, and all other system components, including the batteries are variable due to its modular system. This fundamental architecture is suited for saloons, coupes, SUVs, as well as its other model series.

Ensuring that it meets the conditions in terms of its lightweight design, its strength, and affordability, the vehicle’s architecture builds on an intelligent multi-material mix of aluminium, steel, and carbon fibre.

The Concept EQ, being a SUV crossover, has a dimension of 4730 mm length, 1948 mm width, and 1560 mm height.

With two electric motors on the rear and front axles, and a battery in the floor of the vehicle, the Concept EQ represents a powerful vehicle concept. Its axle-variable torque distribution allows for it to have a high-level of performance and safety. In the most important variant, the Concept EQ has a total output of up to 300kW and a maximum torque of up to 700 Newton metres. In under five seconds, the Concept EQ can accelerate up to 100km/h and with its intelligent operating strategy from Mercedes-Benz, it has a range of up to 500km.

The Concept EQ benefits from the Mercedes-Benz’ group’s cross-model-series modular strategy for alternative drive systems and direct access to key components for electric mobility allows it to enjoy a high-efficiency lithium-ion battery from the Daimler subsidiary Deutsche ACCUMOTIVE.

Be it whether one is charging at home through induction, or via a wallbox for fast charging, the Mercedes-Benz has introduced a Combined Charging System (CCS) that has plans to revolutionise charging speeds. Charging capacity of up to 150kW is now possible. In future, the group also has plans to account for a charging capacity of up to 300kW.

With the extremely accurate maps from Mercedes’ partners, the system comprehends the precise curve radii as well as the position and dimensions of a roundabout. The vehicle can adjust the speed and driving dynamics automatically to provide an even greater comfort and relaxation. EQ then takes a further step forward on the road to autonomous driving, complying with statutory regulations and ensuring safety of the driver and passengers at all times.

Concept EQ is also equipped with the Car-to-X technology that exchanges information with infrastructure and other vehicles to aid in accident prevention. Besides that, it also keeps driver informed about the recharging facilities nearby. Should the Concept EQ sense that the destination cannot be reached on the preexisting available battery charge, it will advise the driver of relevant options on the navigation map.

The user interface focuses on optimal driver assistance. The main concern then is to make best possible use of the energy available in the batteries to reach the best possible range. The inventive consumption display provides the driver with pertinent feedback on their driving style for more efficient energy usage.

A reinterpretation of the Mercedes’ design philosophy of sensual purity, the goal behind Concept EQ is to construct an avant-garde, contemporary and distinctive electro-look. The design of the visionary show car further reveals a beguiling progressivity.

The basic form of the Concept EQ consolidates the features of the SUV with the dynamic features of a coupe, with a dash of shooting brake at its rear. Its muscular-purist proportions are the result of the squat, elongated greenhouse. The new electro-look combines a flowing progression from the lustrous black bonnet across the windscreen to the dark-tinted panoramic roof – all of which are an exciting contrast to the alubeam silver paintwork.

All forms of the body panel joints are almost invisible. The windscreen wipers are concealed while the cameras replace exterior mirrors. Its stretched, dynamic silhouette is further emphasised by the absence of the conventional door handles. All of which makes the SUV crossover seem to be a unified whole while further reducing its air resistance. Broad shoulders, large 21-inch light alloy wheels, and an purposefully reduced side view make for a dynamic presence even before the vehicle drives off.

The electro-look is consistent even within the cockpit with simple, touch-based controls. The asymmetrical design of the instrument panel with its large, floating wide-screen display is customised to the driver. Differentiating the Concept EQ from the control logic in majority of preexisting vehicles is the innovative, digital user experiences that provide a glimpse into the future of Mercedes-Benz.

Four individual seats are found within the Concept EQ. Due to the decrease in volume, the EQ gives the impression that it is floating in space. The avant-garde seat upholstery layout further provides a visual lightness. Speakers are incorporated into head restraints to provide a tailored sound experience. TFT monitors for the entertainment of rear passengers are incorporated into the front backrests.

Characterised by contemporary luxury, the interior of the Concept EQ incorporates emotive appeal intelligence with user-friendlessness and dispenses traditional knobs and switches, with the exception of the electric seat adjustment that is typical of Mercedes. Two out of three of the narrow spokes on the steering wheel have touch controls that are incorporated into the OLED displays. They signify symbols and icons in the respective menus. The driver can then swipe through various menus, and make their selection with a simple click.

The 24-inch TFT high-definition wide-screen display furnishes all the pertinent information: speed, driving data, range, and navigation details. Drivers can then personalise their displays: be it a clean look with low information density or one that provides additional details.

The centre console appears to float in space as it does without the mechanical controls. Instead, it is equipped with touch-sensitive elements. Like the touch controls of the steering wheel, drivers can operate the automatic climate control as well as the infotainment system with just one finger.

The new brand embraces all salient aspects for customer-oriented electric mobility and stretches beyond the vehicle. Future models will manifest the fundamentals of the all-new electric mobility: the amalgamation of emotively appealing and innovative design, exceptional driving pleasure, high everyday practicality and maximum safety, an indication of every vehicle from the inverter of the automobile.

The “Black Panel” front grille distinguishes the mark of Concept EQ while the white-illuminated Mercedes star and all the light features are incorporated in the seamlessly glazed design features. The surrounding blue illuminated LED optical fibres provide a completely new interpretation of the conventional Mercedes radiator grille.

Powerful white LED headlamps are encrusted within the black light strip of the Concept EQ. When viewed from the side, the flowing E-line and beltline forms a frame around the bottom of the mirror camera. Rose gold elements in the chrome-plated E-line moulding and the 21-inch wheels’ spokes are both special striking transitions from the interior to the exterior.

At its rear, the lamps are of matching design, which also takes up the contour of the “Black Panel” that is surrounded by an LED optical fibre in electric blue. This striking blue lights then switches to red when the vehicle is in motion and performs as a taillight. The central Mercedes star emblem at its rear is also illuminated in white. When the directional indicator is in operation, the clasp-like light signature on the exterior switches to orange.

Apart from those, the Concept EQ would automatically welcome you when you approach your car with a specific colour mood in its interior. This welcome scenario is rounded off by digital light in the perforated interior door panels. Once you have seated in the driver’s seat, the lighting mood transforms to an electric blue, with the lights in the seats and doors dimming gradually.

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