The Mercedes-Benz EQG represents a groundbreaking leap in the evolution of luxury electric vehicles, blending the iconic ruggedness of the G-Class with cutting-edge electric technology. Set to hit the market in the latter half of 2024, with a starting price upwards of $150,000, this vehicle is not just an electric adaptation of its fuel-powered predecessor but a bold reimagining. It boasts an innovative exterior design, a luxuriously practical interior, and performance capabilities that promise to redefine what's possible in an electric off-road vehicle. The EQG is a testament to Mercedes-Benz's commitment to pioneering a sustainable, yet uncompromisingly luxurious future in automotive design.
Exterior
The Mercedes-Benz EQG, set for a mid-to-late 2024 release with an expected starting price above $150,000 (about 1.03 million RMB), showcases a dynamic and innovative design. It adopts a two-tone color scheme with the upper half in black and the lower half in a bright aluminum finish. The front features a radiant grille adorned with glowing stars and decorative light strips. Its luggage rack is equipped with a white LED light strip at the front and a red one at the back. Despite these modern touches, the EQG retains the classic "pull-type" door handles and appears to have a spare tire on the tailgate.
Interior
Inside, the EQG is furnished with an AMG steering wheel featuring a dual-spoke design and an air conditioning control panel resembling those in the new A-Class and CLA. The touchpad is revamped, appearing larger and thinner. A notable addition is the “G-Turn” switch, accompanied by a switch for engaging low gear – especially useful in a "crawling" drive mode for off-road low-speed cruise control. These elements suggest a blend of luxury and practicality, emphasizing both comfort and off-road capabilities.
Performance
The EQG's performance is engineered to impress. It features a front double-wishbone and rear rigid axle suspension. A newly developed electronic system emulates the effect of the three differential locks found in the fuel version. Four independent motors are smartly positioned, with the front motors located at a lower position on the front axle and the rear motors integrated more into the inner side of the rear axle. The rear axle is a newly developed de Dion unit, specifically designed for the EQG.
Power distribution is handled by a dual-speed gearbox with a low gear ratio, sending drive to all four wheels. Drivers can choose from seven driving modes, including four specifically for off-road use: Eco, Comfort, Sport, Trail, Rock, Sand, and Creeper. The system can also direct all power to a single wheel to handle particularly challenging off-road conditions.
The EQG is equipped with a battery pack of approximately 100 kWh, utilizing high-silicon material for a very high energy density. This new type of battery pack promises a 20-40% increase in energy density, reaching over 800 Wh/l, making it one of the highest energy density batteries in automobiles. This means extended range without additional weight.
Additionally, the EQG boasts a smaller turning radius and can even perform on-the-spot turns – a feature enabled by having one side's wheels rotate forward and the other's backward, controlled via shift paddles. While transitioning to electrification, Mercedes-Benz seems committed to maintaining the off-road prowess that the G-Class is renowned for.
In summary, the Mercedes-Benz EQG is poised to be a trailblazing electric vehicle that doesn't compromise on luxury, off-road capability, or performance. Its innovative design, sophisticated interior, and groundbreaking performance technology position it as a strong contender in the luxury electric SUV market.