Mercedes-Benz took to the recent Paris Motor Show with an action plan for beating electric-car manufacturer Tesla. The German automaker unveiled its new Generation EQ all-wheel drive, all-electric SUV concept.
EQ, which stands for “Electric Intelligence,” is as much about a concept that shows off the future of the electric powertrain as it is about a vision of the future design of Mercedes’ electric cars. In fact, the underlying architecture of the Generation EQ SUV concept is one that can be used on any upcoming cabriolet, coupe, saloon, or other model thanks to a modular component system.
Mercedes followed the trendy practices of replacing side mirrors with cameras and tucking away door handles and windshield wipers to enhance aerodynamics. The design language of the EQ vaguely hints at current Mercedes trends and offers an electro-chic vibe to its overall aesthetic.
Inside, the Generation EQ boasts a 24-inch TFT screen that takes the place of the traditional instrument panel. OLED touchscreens can be found on two of the three spokes of the steering wheel, offering the ability to swipe through menus and control the car with simple movements from the driver’s thumbs.
The Generation EQ comes with a pair of electric motors, with one sitting on each axle, making a total of 402 horsepower and offering a range of 310 miles. Mercedes has also incorporated a fast-charging capability; this will boost the range by 100 miles after only a five-minute charge. In addition, the SUV can leap from a stop to 60 mph in a little under 5 seconds.
Another unique feature is the ability to automatically adjust the speed and driving dynamics to optimize comfort. This introduces what Mercedes calls “sensor fusion.” The data collected makes driving of the vehicle highly assistive, leading to eventual autonomous driving capabilities.
Mercedes expects to produce the Generation EQ production model in 2020, giving Tesla just enough time to worry about the mounting offensive from German automakers.