Mercedes-Benz’s efforts to electrify its lineup will include the G-Class. The automaker previewed the production version over a year ago with the Concept EQG. While specific details remain elusive, comments from company officials are beginning to paint an intriguing picture of what the real EQG will offer when it arrives.
Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management of the Mercedes-Benz Group and driver of one of the first prototypes, said Engine trend that the SUV will have “phenomenal performance on and off the road”. He called it “competent” and “easy to ride”.
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Mercedes didn’t provide much information on the powertrain, but the concept debuted with four electric motors that will arrive in the production version. They work independently of each other and work with its clutchable two-speed gearbox. Earlier this year, Mercedes released a video showing the EQG performing a tank turn – a 360-degree rotation on its own axis. At the time, the automaker also revealed that the SUV would feature a specially designed rigid rear axle and independent front suspension.
The company has a new platform that underpins its electric vehicles called EVA2. However, the electric G-Class will not use it. According Engine trend‘s report, the SUV will ride on a dedicated platform. “It’s its own vehicle, period, and it will remain its own vehicle,” Källenius told the publication. Another EQG difference will be the optional silicon anode battery that Mercedes will offer in the model. It will provide a 20-40% increase in energy density, but will come at a steep price.
However, that’s not the only battery technology Mercedes is working on. The automaker is also developing lithium iron phosphate batteries for entry-level vehicles and Mercedes is co-developing a new battery cell with Stellantis and ACC.
The Mercedes-Benz EQG will be launched sometime in 2024, giving the automaker plenty of time to polish the product. We expect Mercedes to offer the SUV with different powertrain and battery configurations. The starting price is also unknown, but the G-Class remains quite a popular model. In 2021, sales hit a new high, and that demand will only help Mercedes make more money. We hope to hear more about the model in the coming months.
