Mercedes Generation EQ electric concept: full details
Mercedes reveals new Generation EQ electric SUV coupe concept at Paris
Mercedes is taking the next step towards an electrified future with this, the new Generation EQ concept. Unveiled at the 2016 Paris Motor Show, it's an all-electric SUV, built on a scalable platform that Mercedes says will underpin a whole new range of electric cars - despite the radical looks the company has applied to this concept.
In the Generation EQ, there are two electric motors that give the car permanent four-wheel drive, and the system can be powered to up to 420bhp, depending on its use. Mercedes is also aiming to deliver a range of around 310 miles, while also retaining Mercedes tradition of building luxurious and safe cars.
The Generation EQ previews Mercedes' new EQ range of models, which will form a separate brand, much like BMW's i-Division. The name is a play on IQ, and is designed to convey the firm's vision of 'Electric Intelligence', and building cars that, according to Mercedes CEO Dieter Zetsche, deliver "a comprehensive electric ecosystem of services, technologies and innovations."
While it's a concept, the platform for the Generation EQ is virtually production ready, while it uses a combination of high-strength steel, aluminium and carbon fibre to help keep weight down. There are lithium-ion batteries set low in the chassis to deliver decent handling, too.
As well as new running gear, the Generation EQ also showcases Mercedes' latest interior technology, with a new layout featuring touch-sensitve steering wheel controls that scroll through various menus on the organic LED dashboard displays.
Mercedes has created a dedicated platform for battery vehicles, and the scalable nature of the platform means it can be used in a wide range of vehicles beyond the SUV concept seen in Paris. In addition to a new platform, Mercedes is developing new charging technology which could see rapid charging boosting the car's range to 100 miles in just five minutes.
A teaser video released by Mercedes gave a first look at the new concept, revealing that the car would be an SUV.
• Best electric cars to buy now
The video showed few details, aside from the fact it would be all-electric, would feature a futuristic-looking grille with LED lights, LED headlights and tail-lights and rear-view cameras in place of door mirrors.
What do you think of Mercedes' electric car plans? Let us know in the comments...
