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Mercedes G580 EQ Revealed, Gets 579-hp Quad-Motor Setup

The iconic G-Wagon has finally gone electric with a prime focus on off-road performance. The all-new Mercedes G580 with EQ Technology has finally been revealed. In addition to the electric G-Wagon, the German car marque also revealed the 2025 Mercedes G550 and AMG G63. But we would just concern ourselves with the electrified G-Class which now boasts tons of new equipment to be an even more capable off-roading machine. Firstly, only the EDITION ONE variant will launch in the U.S. You might also like: Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e PHEV Announced w/ DC Fast Charging Mercedes G580 EQ Revealed – Specs The electric Mercedes G-Wagon comes in a quad-motor AWD configuration (one motor for each wheel) sourcing power from a high-voltage 116 kWh battery pack (usable). The result is an impressive 579 hp and 859 lb-ft (1,165 Nm) of maximum power and torque enabling a 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) sprint in a mere 4.6 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 112 mph (180 km/h). The ladder-frame SUV boasts an independent double-wishbone front suspension and solid rear axle. There is a shiftable 2-speed transmission with LOW RANGE off-road gear reduction enabling torque vectoring via virtual differential locks. Then there is some unique G-Wagon-specific tech like G-TURN and G-STEERING for a 180-degree U-turn (rotate on the spot) and crawl function, respectively. This hardware allows high stability on lateral slopes of up to 35 degrees and a maximum fording depth of 33.5 inches (851 mm). The charging equipments include either an 11 kW AC or 200 kW DC fast charger. The latter ensures a charging time of 32 minutes for 10% to 80% SoC. To protect the battery components, the underbody is constructed using carbon-mixed materials. They possess higher rigidity in comparison to steel or aluminium. Furthermore, it offers protection against corrosion and weighs less. The ground clearance is a massive 9.8 inches (249 mm). Finally, the G580 EQ has a 32-degree approach angle, a 30.7-degree departure angle and a 20.3-degree breakover angle. Specs Mercedes G580 EQ Battery 116 kWh (usable) Drivetrain Quad-Motor AWD Power 579 hp Torque 859 lb-ft (1,165 Nm) Transmission 2-speed Charging (200 kW DC) 32 mins (10% to 80% SoC) Acc. (0 – 60 mph / 97 km/h) 4.6 seconds Top Speed 112 mph (180 km/h) Approach Angle 32-degree Departure Angle 30.7-degree Breakover Angle 20.3-degree Specs You might also like: Mercedes VISION EQXX Drives 1,010 km On Single Charge, Still Has 309 km Range Left Interior and Features The cabin of the new Mercedes G580 EQ Technology is as extravagant as you would’ve imagined. The prime highlights of the interior consist of: You might also like: 2024 Mercedes EQS and EQE Get All-New Braking, More Range Learn Electric Cars Says The electrification of the iconic G-Wagon marks a key milestone in the history of the German luxury carmaker. The electric G-Class was in the works for a long time. We had spotted spy images and videos on multiple occasions. Now that it is finally here, it would be intriguing to witness how well the new customers embrace it. There was always a ruggedness associated with the G-Wagon in the ICE guise. Sure, not a lot of people generally take out a G-Wagon in off-roading environments. We don’t suppose that will change much with the electric guise of the G-Wagon either. Still, Mercedes has specifically mentioned that its prime focus while designing the electric G was off-roading. That becomes evident the moment you take a look at the off-roading kit on offer. We shall cover the reactions of the media and customers as soon as they are out.

Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e PHEV Front Three Quarters

Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e PHEV Announced w/ DC Fast Charging

6 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

Mercedes-Benz is strengthening its hybrid portfolio amidst a slowdown in EV demand in the USA and China. The Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e PHEV has been announced ahead of the H2 2024 launch. It will bear more tech and convenience features over the standard GLC 300 4MATIC model. Note that the GLC is the second-most successful SUV in Mercedes’ camp after the GLE. Hence, to offer it with multiple powertrain options seems prudent to capitalize on its popularity. The strong hybrid mill ensures a usable pure-electric drive and DC fast charging. You might also like: Mercedes VISION EQXX Drives 1,010 km On Single Charge, Still Has 309 km Range Left Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e PHEV – Specs The plug-in hybrid premium SUV comes with a 2.0-liter turbo petrol mill with a Permanently Excited Electric Synchronous Motor which has a combined output of a healthy 313 hp and 406 lb-ft (550 Nm). Out of this, the electric powertrain contributes 134 hp and 325 lb-ft (442 Nm). There is a rather large 24.8 kWh battery pack which offers an electric range of up to 130 km (81 mi) as per WLTP. It can be charged using either an 11 kW AC home charger or a 60 kW DC fast charger. The latter can charge the battery fully in around 30 minutes. Even during pure electric drive, the top speed is 87 mph (140 km/h). The PHEV can achieve a maximum recuperation power of up to 100 kW. In the regular driving model, the top speed is electronically limited to 135 mph (217 km/h). In the sportiest settings, the acceleration from 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) takes just 6.6 seconds. That is more than adequate performance for a bulky plug-in hybrid SUV. Specs Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e PHEV Engine 2.0L Plug-in Hybrid w/ Electric Motor Battery 24.8 kWh Total Power 313 hp Total Torque 406 lb-ft (550 Nm) Charging 60 kW DC – 30 minutes Pure Electric Range 130 km (81 mi) – WLTP Acc. (0-60 mph / 97 km/h) 6.6 seconds (est.) Top Speed (Max) 135 mph (217 km/h) Top Speed (Electric Drive) 87 mph (140 km/h) Specs You might also like: Key Highlights Of The BMW Vision Neue Klasse X Revealed Interior and Features The interior of the Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e PHEV offers an opulent cabin, just as we expect of a Merc. It is offered in three variants – Standard, Exclusive and Pinnacle. The top features include: You might also like: All-New Audi Q6 e-tron Quattro Revealed With New Platform Learn Electric Cars Says Mercedes-Benz is ensuring that it doesn’t go all-out with EVs but keeps its ICE and hybrid powertrains intact and updated as well. That is becoming a necessity since the EV demand in some major economies across the globe is slowing down. It can be argued that hybrids might just be the need of the hour. The leap to complete electrification might have to pass through hybridization. Hence, carmakers are re-strategizing their plans to achieve carbon neutrality in the coming years. Mercedes-Benz launching a strong hybrid of its popular SUV is a clear indication in that direction.

Mercedes VISION EQXX Drives 1,010 km On Single Charge, Still Has 309 km Range Left

12 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

Mercedes-Benz is on an efficiency-demonstration spree with its VISION EQXX project achieving new records every day! The Mercedes VISION EQXX achieved a 1,010 km (627.6 mi.) range on a single charge and still had 309 km (192 mi.) of range in the tank. The German luxury carmaker is hyper-focused on achieving unprecedented levels of efficiency with its VISION EQXX concept. This is its third long (1,000 km+) and arduous journey across treacherous terrains to put the EV and its components through their paces. Prior to this, it had already successfully concluded a 1,000 km+ journey across Europe. This time around, the location – Arabian Peninsula, is a bit more extreme. This odyssey took place between Riyadh and Dubai in 14 hours and 42 minutes. The trip included urban and sub-urban sections with heavy traffic and lengthy highway sections across the open desert. You might also like: 2024 Mercedes EQS and EQE Get All-New Braking, More Range Mercedes VISION EQXX Achieves Incredible Range As per the official press release by Mercedes-Benz, the stunning test vehicle displayed an impressive power consumption of 7.4 kWh / 100 km (8.4 mi / kWh). This is an equivalent of approximately 0.9 l / 100 km or 282 MPGe for a gasoline vehicle. This test took place in an ambient temperature range of upto 34 degrees Celsius (93 degrees Fahrenheit). Note that the VISION EQXX boasts a drag coefficient of 0.17. On this momentous occasion, Markus Schäfer, Chief Technology Officer at Mercedes-Benz Group AG, said, “With an exceptional consumption of just 7.4 kWh/100 km, the VISION EQXX continues to provide valuable data for ongoing development of advanced electric efficiency technologies. As expected, all systems performed perfectly in the desert conditions, handling challenges such as road surface finish and temperature as well as dust with ease. Further proof that electric drive is ready for global markets.” You might also like: Mercedes, BMW Exceed EPA Range in Real-World Test, Tesla Falls Short Thermal Management and Solar Roof The VISION EQXX has showcased its capability by covering over 1,000 km on a single charge twice before. In its third road trip, reaching up to 34 degrees Celsius, the car’s advanced thermal management system was tested in desert conditions. An on-demand system efficiently regulated the electric drivetrain and cabin temperatures, while the air conditioning system, aided by a multi-source heat pump, operated with minimal energy impact. Engineers also evaluated the performance of the solar roof, equipped with 117 solar cells, harvesting 1.8 kWh of energy during the drive to Dubai, extending the range by approximately 24 km (15 mi.). Data on wind and sunlight influence, including angle and direction, were collected for comparative analysis with previous tests. Integration of such technology into the Concept CLA Class signifies broader applications within the Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA) framework. You might also like: Taycan Turbo GT Becomes The Most Powerful Porsche Ever Learn Electric Cars Says This electric mobility revolution relies heavily on the efficiency of the powertrain. It includes electric motors, as well as a battery management system. Combine that with engineering to enhance the aerodynamics and auxiliary components like a multi-source heat pump, it is possible to maximize the range quite steeply. Agreed, this is not an inexpensive affair. In fact, that is why only premium carmakers are experimenting with it. Still, with time, these aspects of technology will trickle down to the mass market EVs.

EV Makers Reconsidering Their Ambitious Plans, Was Toyota Right All Along?

13 Comments / Featured / By LEC Team

Many legacy automobile companies are backtracking on the ambitious plans to go full electric either toward the end of this decade or sometime in the coming decade. The ‘electric’ plans of legacy car makers to have a 100% EV portfolio in the coming years are beginning to look overstated. In the heat of the moment, the last couple of years witnessed auto giants jumping onto the EV bandwagon without any reservations. They wanted to transform their entire production facilities and portfolios to strictly offer electric cars in the coming decade. However, Toyota was never convinced about this idea. In fact, it has been receiving a lot of flak for it in recent times. The Japanese auto giant has been immensely bullish on hybrid and hydrogen cars. Interestingly, many legacy car marques initially thought of skipping the hybrid powertrains, citing them a waste of resources and time when the end goal was to ultimately go for complete electrification. But in just a couple of years, car companies are beginning to think that the sales might not keep rising exponentially for a sustained period. Mercedes-Benz is the latest legacy luxury carmaker to join this fray and announced that it might continue to offer its ICE cars for longer than previously thought. You might also like: Are EVs With 1000 km Range Still A Distant Reality? Plans Of EV Makers Too Ambitious? According to the latest Reuters report, Mercedes-Benz announced it’s pushing back its plan to switch to electric cars by five years. It promised investors it will continue to improve its traditional petrol engine cars. This makes Mercedes-Benz the latest car company to admit that people aren’t buying electric cars as quickly as expected. Now, Mercedes-Benz predicts that half of its cars will be electric or hybrid by 2030. This is five years later than what they said in 2021. Back then, they wanted half of their cars to be electric by 2025, with most of them being fully electric. Ola Källenius, Chairman and CEO at Mercedes-Benz said, “It is almost like we will have a new lineup in 2027 that will take us well into the 2030s.” This is a clear indication that the German luxury carmaker had overestimated the popularity and mass EV adoption. You might also like: Are EVs Really More Troublesome Than Non-Plug-In Hybrid Cars? Carmakers Who Are Reconsidering Their EV Plans There are some eminent names on this list. For instance, Ford had been cutting the production of its F-150 Lightning electric pickup truck. Moreover, reduced interest from the customers and dealers for the famed Mach-E has been detrimental in Ford having to reconsider its EV production plans. Another American auto giant, GM has also been re-assessing the situation. GM CEO, Mary Barra is also acknowledging that hybrids might be the way forward, at least in the near future. She remarked, “Deploying plug-in technology in strategic segments will deliver some of the environmental benefits of EVs as the nation continues to build its charging infrastructure.” Automobile giants like Volkswagen also wanted to skip the entire hybrid route to offer EVs directly. Recently, even Volvo announced that it will be pulling future investments from its popular EV company, Polestar. It was only firms like Stellantis, Toyota, Hyundai Motor Group (including Hyundai, Kia and Genesis), who are incorporating hybrid cars into their portfolios across many international markets. They feel that the path to complete electrification will pass through hybrid powertrains. You might also like: Top Reasons For High Interest Rates On EV Loans Learn Electric Cars Says These news reports might be a bit confusing since the overall EV sales in 2023 has been significantly higher in contrast to 2022. However, we must understand that while the overall sales is increasing quite rapidly, the long terms goals are looking bloated and over-ambitious. It is not like electric cars are not selling. In fact, with the constant development of EV charging infrastructure and enticing incentives from governments all over the world, EVs are gaining prominence. With time, even the prices of the electric cars are going doing due to the mass availability of Lithium-ion batteries and huge volume production. But the anticipated sales figures for the end of this decade or the middle of the next decade might not come to fruition. It would be intriguing to witness if hybrid cars provide a better intermediary foundation to facilitate mass EV adoption by the end of the next decade with revised plans from auto makers.

2024 Mercedes EQS and EQE Get All-New Braking, More Range

3 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

The German luxury car marque has updated the lineup slightly to include an all-new braking system and a heat pump for more range. The 2024 Mercedes EQS and EQE models now get an all-new braking system. This is the brand’s response to the common complaint in the previous models. Essentially, the previous models were tuned for high efficiency with regenerative braking. However, it somehow resulted in a strange pedal feel while lacking feedback. That is quite discernible for most drivers. Hence, they were short on confidence during braking in the last few feet prior to coming to a halt. Hence, Mercedes addresses this issue in the 2024 models. You might also like: Tesla Cybertruck Issues With CCS Adapter, Slow Charging 2024 Mercedes EQS and EQE Get All-New Braking Now the new models get an all-new braking system. Mercedes claims that this system will offer an “improved brake feel”. It is great to witness carmakers responding to customer feedback and turning up with the solution so rapidly. However, we shall have to wait for customers and automobile experts/reviewers to test these out in real-world conditions. You might also like: Top 5 Upcoming Electric SUVs in 2024 – Part 2 Heat Pump and Improved Range Another critical update in the 2024 models is the addition of heat pumps. This will result in an improved performance of the battery and in turn, range, in extremely cold weather conditions. We know that Lithium-ion batteries are susceptible to temperature. That’s why we experience EVs losing some range during extreme cold. The addition of a heat pump will ensure that the battery remains in an optimal temperature range for maximum performance. Furthermore, the 2024 models, in dual-motor 4MATIC AWD iterations, now get an all-wheel-drive disconnect function. That will help improve the range even more. As a result, the EQS 450 4MATIC and EQS 580 4MATIC now get a bump of a marginal 2 miles and 5 miles of EPA-estimated range, respectively. However, the AMG EQS sedan now offers a 23-mile higher range (305 miles). Increased Battery Capacity and Power Mercedes has also made minor improvements in the battery capacity of the EQS SUV. It now has a usable capacity of 118 kWh. Interestingly, this doesn’t translate to any surge in range. The EQS 450+ now produces 355 hp and 419 lb-ft of peak power and torque up from 328 hp and 417 lb-ft. Similarly, the EQS 580 4MATIC now generates 536 hp and 633 lb-ft of peak power and torque up from 516 hp and 631 lb-ft. You might also like: New EV Battery From Zeekr To Offer 500 kW Charging Price The 2024 EQE sedan now retails from a starting price of $76,050, while the SUV iteration starts at $79,050. There are an additional $1,150 destination charges. On the other hand, the premium EQS starts at $105,550 for sedan and SUV.

Mercedes-Benz EQG Electric G-Wagon Concept

How EVs Perform 360-Degree Turns On The Spot?

4 Comments / Featured / By LEC Team

The latest demonstration of the upcoming electric Mercedes-Benz G Wagon (EQG) doing a 360-degree turn on its axis highlights the insane capabilities of EVs. You must’ve found it intriguing how EVs are able to perform 360-degree turns on their axis. Let us try to understand the working behind it. In recent years, the global automotive landscape has witnessed a remarkable surge in the adoption of electric vehicles. As environmental consciousness grows and technology advances, more drivers are embracing the silent hum of electric motors. Not only are EVs contributing to a greener future, but they are also redefining the driving experience with cutting-edge features. One such fascinating capability is the ability of electric vehicles to perform a full 360-degree turn on their axis. In this article, we delve into the technological prowess behind this impressive manoeuvre. We will also explore the innovations that make it possible. Some notable examples include the Hyundai IONIQ 5 Prototype, GMC Hummer EV, and the eagerly anticipated electric Mercedes-Benz G Wagon (EQG). You might also like: Mercedes Electric G-Wagon (EQG) to Get Silicon Battery Material How This Technology Works? The key to the 360-degree turn lies in the intricate dance of electric motors and advanced steering technology. Unlike traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, which rely on complex mechanical systems to distribute power, electric vehicles leverage the simplicity and precision of electric motors. Many modern EVs feature a motor at each wheel. This configuration is referred to as the “e-Corner System”, in the Hyundai parlance. This four-motor setup allows for unparalleled control over each wheel independently. This enables precise adjustments to the speed and direction of each wheel. The magic doesn’t stop there. Specialized steering technology further enhances the manoeuvrability of these electric marvels. By dynamically adjusting the torque and speed of each wheel, EVs can achieve the perfect balance required for executing a seamless 360-degree turn. The ability to rotate on the spot not only showcases the agility of electric vehicles but also opens up new possibilities for navigating tight spaces and enhancing overall driving control. You might also like: Top 5 Unique Upcoming Electric Pickup Trucks in 2024 Top Examples of EVs Using This Function Hyundai IONIQ 5 Prototype Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 Prototype is a prime example of the e-Corner System in action. With four electric motors strategically placed at each wheel, this EV can effortlessly spin on its axis. It offers a glimpse into the future of urban mobility where tight turns are no longer a challenge. One function of this system is the wheels able to move 90 degrees in the same direction. It ensures hastle-free parallel parking. Additionally, all its wheels are seen in this video at 45 degrees which allows a full 360-degree spin. GMC Hummer EV The GMC Hummer EV, known for its imposing presence and off-road capabilities, also boasts the ability to execute precise 360-degree turns. Its combination of powerful electric motors and advanced steering systems contributes to a nimbleness unexpected from a vehicle of its size. This video showcases this rather handy and unique feat in action. The EV has 4-wheel steering, allowing the CrabWalk. It makes the vehicle move diagonally. Upcoming Electric Mercedes-Benz G-Class The iconic Mercedes-Benz G Wagon, a symbol of luxury and ruggedness, is set to make waves in the electric vehicle market. Featuring a four-motor setup, the electric G Wagon is poised to join the ranks of EVs that can effortlessly pivot in place. This video shows the Mercedes-Benz CEO, Ola Källenius using the G-Turn. You might also like: Top 5 Unique Upcoming Electric SUVs in 2024 – Part 1 Learn Electric Cars Says As electric vehicles continue to redefine the automotive landscape, the ability to execute 360-degree turns stands out as a testament to the innovation driving this transformation. The seamless coordination of four electric motors and sophisticated steering technology not only enhances manoeuvrability but also promises a more dynamic and enjoyable driving experience. With examples like the Hyundai IONIQ 5 Prototype, GMC Hummer EV, and the upcoming electric Mercedes-Benz G Wagon, it’s clear that the future of electric mobility is not only environmentally conscious but also remarkably agile. As technology continues to evolve, electric vehicle owners can look forward to an era where the joy of driving is redefined by the possibilities of precise, on-the-spot manoeuvres.

Mercedes Maybach EQS SUV Exterior Front Three Quarters

First-Ever Mercedes Maybach EQS Luxury SUV Revealed

4 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

The legendary Maybach division of Mercedes has premiered its first all-electric model, the EQS SUV based on the regular GLS at the recently concluded Shanghai Auto Show. The Mercedes Maybach EQS 680 4MATIC is the sub-brand’s first all-electric, full-size luxury SUV. The Ingolstadt-based car marque claims the new SUV combines Maybach exclusivity with technical perfection. It is also the first Mercedes-Benz model to come with sustainably processed leather. One could recognize it instantly with the optional two-tone paintwork and colossal 22-inch alloys (available later). Let us check out its details. You might also like: How Does Polestar 4 Compare Against Tesla Model Y? You might also like: BMW i7 M70 xDrive Revealed as the Fastest EV from BMW Mercedes Maybach EQS SUV – Specs The opulent electric SUV is equipped with a large 132 kWh battery powering 2 Permanent Synchronous Electric Motors enabling an All-Wheel-Drive configuration via Mercedes’s trademark 4MATIC system. The total power and torque outputs stand at a potent 649 hp and 949 Nm ensuring a sporty 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) sprint in just 4.1 secs. The top speed is rated at 130 mph. There is 200 kW DC fast charging available that juices up the battery from 10-80% in just 31 mins. Using the 9.6 kW AC charger, the battery can be charged from 0-100% in 12.75 hours. The large battery allows a decent range of up to 600 km on the WLTP cycle. It gets Eco, Sport, Off-road and Individual drive modes. Mercedes Maybach EQS SUV Specs Battery 132 kWh Range (WLTP) up to 600 km (373 mi) Power / Torque 649 hp / 949 Nm Acceleration (0-96 km/h) 4.1 secs 200 kW DC Fast Charging 31 mins (10-80%) Top Speed 209 km/h (130 mph) Specs You might also like: Mercedes Electric G-Wagon (EQG) to Get Silicon Battery Material Mercedes Maybach EQS SUV Dimensions Mercedes Maybach EQS is a large luxury SUV which is indicated by its gargantuan proportions. It has a length of 5,123 mm, a width of 2,035 mm, a height of 1,725 mm and an impressive wheelbase of 3,211 mm. The DIGITAL LIGHT feature welcomes and says goodbye to the driver with a special light show. Additionally, an animated projection of the Maybach pattern shines in all four doors. Parameter Dimensions Length 5,123 mm (201.7 in) Width (w/o mirrors) 2,035 mm (80.1 in) Height 1,725 mm (67.9 in) Wheelbase 3,211 mm (126.4 in) Dimensions You might also like: Wireless Charging For EVs Could Be Revolutionary Technology Interior & Features On the inside, the Mercedes Maybach EQS gets a standard MBUX Hyperscreen with “zero layer”. It can be customized with three display styles (understated, sport, and MAYBACH) and three modes (navigation, assistance, and service). The car also features a three-dimensional performance bar, an alternative display, Burmester 4D Surround Sound System, Dolby Atmos, and a digital instrument cluster with animated effects. The company has also added two 11.6-inch displays on the backrests of the front seats. The rear passengers also get MBUX High-End Rear Seat Entertainment, MBUX rear tablet, and MBUX Interior Assist. The luxury EV comes with Maybach Exclusive Nappa Leather. All seats have ventilation, massage function, and neck/ shoulder heating. Additional features include two thermal cup holders, a shelf for the standard MBUX rear tablet, adaptive rear lighting, active scenting, four fast-charging USB-C ports, two HDMI interfaces and a HEPA filter (High-Efficiency Particulate Air). You might also like: Stella Vita Electric Camper Van – Self-Sustaining Mobile House Price Now, the price of the regular Mercedes GLS600 starts at US$170,000 and there is a premium of around US$25,000 for the corresponding EQ versions. Therefore, a retail sticker of around US$200,000 might be logical. The sales could commence by the end of this year (2023) or the beginning of next (2024).

Mercedes Electric G-Wagon (EQG) to Get Silicon Battery Material

7 Comments / Battery / By LEC Team

Mercedes-Benz has invested in the battery materials startup Sila in 2019 which will supply the newly-developed material for the Li-ion battery for the upcoming Mercedes electric G-Wagon (EQG). The upcoming Mercedes electric G-Wagon (EQG) is set to come equipped with a range-boosting silicon battery material engineered by Sila. Mercedes invested in Sila back in 2019 with the aim of getting access to future technology to be used in the electric versions of its popular and next-gen EVs. The time has come to reap the benefits of that investment as the new ‘Titan Silicon’ will replace the graphite anodes to boost range, increase the charging speed, and reduce battery weight without sacrificing the cycle life or safety of the battery. You might also like: Are Stricter Emission Norms Right to Push Mass EV Adoption? Mercedes Electric G-Wagon (EQG) The electric G-Wagon has been spied testing in Europe as the plans to launch the iconic SUV are near. Reports suggest that we might see the eco-friendly G-Wagon sometime by the end of 2024 with deliveries set to commence in the first quarter of 2025. The silhouette of the concept and spied versions reveal the oh-so-traditional and orthodox boxy pattern with an imposing and rugged build. Sure, there will be tons of modern EV design cues including a sealed front grille, aerodynamic alloys, plenty use of LED lighting and more. You might also like: Here’s How Ferrari May Still Sell ICE Cars Post EU Ban of 2035 Titan Silicon However, the biggest talking point with the electric G-Wagon has to be what lies under the floor. By using Titan Silicon instead of Graphite for the anode of the Li-ion battery, the G-Wagon will boast a charging time of 20 mins for 10-80% which will go further down by the time the manufacturing of the EQG commences. Additionally, the weight of the EV battery will come down by 15% while saving 20% more space. Sila has developed this technology for 10 years with 55,000 iterations taking into consideration optimal battery performance, safety, large-scale manufacturing, long range and improved charging times. Most importantly, EV-haters would be glad to know that Titan Silicon generates 50% to 75% less CO2 per kWh than graphite during production significantly reducing the EVs’ environmental impact. Sila aims to produce enough material to power 1 million EVs in the next 5 years starting with the EQG. Titan Silicon-powered batteries’ 800+ Wh/L will be the world’s highest energy density cell which will be on offer in 2025 in the electric G-Wagon. You might also like: 5 New EV Battery Technologies – Aluminium-ion to Niobium Markus Schäfer, Chief Technology Officer and Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG said about the startup, “Sila has come a long way since we established our strategic partnership in 2019. Delivering such a high energy density is a true game-changer and allows us to think in completely new directions when developing future electric cars.” All this makes us hugely excited about the Mercedes EQG.

Factors on Which Energy Consumption of an EV Depends

7 Comments / Featured / By LEC Team

With electric mobility taking its roots as the future solution, it becomes critical to acquaint ourselves with the factors on which the energy consumption of an EV depends. Now, everyone is concerned about the range of electric cars which is also the last remaining major issue with electric mobility in conjunction with charging infrastructure. But it looks like if EVs start offering really high range, people might get encouraged to take the plunge. For this blog post, we shall take into account the incredible feat achieved by the Mercedes VISION EQXX, where it was able to travel over 1,200 km on a single charge with an impressive energy consumption of just 8.3 kWh per 100 km. It completed this journey of 1,202 km from Stuttgart (Germany) to Silverstone (UK) in 14 hours and 30 minutes. You might also like: GAC Aion Hyper GT to be the Most Efficient Production Car Ever Key Figures for this Journey Value Distance Travelled 1,202 km Time Taken (over two days) 14 hours 30 minutes Drag Coefficient (Cd) 0.17 Energy Consumption 8.3 kWh per 100 km Weight (unladen) 1,755 kg Battery < 100 kWh Voltage > 900 V Key Values Energy Consumption of an EV Aerodynamics Now, it is not that difficult to understand that aerodynamics can greatly affect the energy consumption of an EV. In fact, that is the reason why the shapes of Formula 1 cars are so distinct. They focus on optimizing the body design to achieve the best aerodynamic efficiency. Essentially, it refers to how efficiently the body of the vehicle is able to cut through wind resulting in the lowest wind resistance. This becomes important with increased speeds. At high speeds. wind resistance poses the greatest hurdle to the acceleration of any vehicle. In the case of the Mercedes VISION EQXX, its body curves and a retractable rear diffuser aid the aerodynamics tremendously. This allows an overall value to be just 0.17 Cd, which will be the best on any production car when it officially launches beating its own kin, the EQS (which has a Cd value of 0.20 currently). Also, there are additional aero-shutters that open up below the front bumper further contributing to the aerodynamic efficiency at high speeds. You might also like: 2023 Hyundai KONA Electric vs 2023 Kia Niro EV – Specs, Range and Price Comparison Energy Consumption of an EV Depends on Wheels You might have noticed that the tyres of most EVs are very specifically designed. While it is an attempt to distinguish EVs from traditional ICE-powered cars, there is a deeper meaning hidden there as well. There is a way of making a car more aerodynamically efficient but that might make less aesthetic and practical sense. For instance, Mercedes says that they could bring the Cd value down to 0.16 if they cover the rear wheels. In fact, we see something like that on the Lightyear 0 solar EV. So, while that might theoretically be possible, EV makers also need to consider the fact that the final product must look like a car for them to actually sell as it might not go down too well with the potential customers for whom the looks and design play a key role. The EQXX has a Crr (Coefficient of Rolling Resistance for Tires of 0.0047). You might also like: Are Chargers at DC Fast Charging Stations Bad For EVs? Rolling Resistance and Weight Now, the total resistance to the motion of any vehicle takes into account the frontal area of the car, its weight, the rolling resistance of the tires, its velocity, air density and acceleration due to gravity. Out of these, automobile designers can vastly control the frontal area and the weight of the car. For this example, the frontal area of the EQXX is 2.12 m2 and its weight is 1,755 kg (3,869 lbs). In comparison, the weight of the EQS is around 2,500 kg. The frontal area of the Telsa Model 3 and Toyota Prius is 2.20 m2. The weight of the battery of the EQXX is just 495 kg compared to 537 kg for the 100 kWh battery of the Tesla Model S. Hence, Mercedes has improved on these aspects without compromising the shape of the vehicle too much. Energy Consumption of an EV Depends on Powertrain and Packaging Finally, energy consumption is a factor of the efficiency of the powertrain. While the aforementioned factors were a part of the design, the efficiency of the powertrain is what engineers are most engrossed in. That is where the EQXX shines. It has a cell-to-body construction and a passive cooling system for the battery. Note that the motor and inverter have active cooling. Mercedes also says that the powertrain efficiency during highway runs is around 95%. Also, the peak DC charging capacity is limited to 120 kW. Both these figures inform that the battery heating is not a problem which is why the engineers have decided to go with an air-cooled battery system rather than the more common liquid-cooled ones that we see in most cars. Hence, these are the most prominent factors that determine the overall efficiency and energy consumption rate of an EV. Mercedes VISION EQXX is an attempt to showcase just how far we can stretch the boundaries with the existing technology without making too many changes to the general aesthetics of a car. We are certain that more carmakers will pursue this method of making cars more efficient rather than slapping them with large batteries. We would love to hear your opinions about this.

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