The Mercedes-Benz Concept EQ recently made its South East Asian debut in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, providing us with a glimpse into the German marque's vision for the future of mobility. 'EQ', which stands for Electric Intelligence, is the brand's new division for electric mobility. With a strong focus on customer-oriented electric mobility, the EQ brand offers a comprehensive ecosystem of products, services, technologies and innovations.
1. Modular electric-vehicle architecture
Mercedes' new generation of electric vehicles will employ the brand's new architecture developed specifically for its battery-electric models. Thanks to a modular building-block system, it is highly scalable and useable for Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs), sedans, coupes, as well as other bodystyles, making it the optimal platform to meet the requirements of a future-oriented battery-electric model family. On top of that, a combination of steel, aluminium and carbon fibre ensures the platform's lightweight design, strength and cost efficiency.
2. More power, more range, faster charging
Two electric motors, situated on the front and rear axles, power the Concept EQ. Together, they put out 300kW and 700Nm of torque, and propel the electric SUV from 0-100km/h in under five seconds. Wringing this high-level performance together is an electric all-wheel drive system with axle-variable torque distribution and highly-efficient, modular lithium-ion batteries boasting a total capacity of over 70kWh and serving up a driving range of 500km.
Thanks to a Combined Charging System, Mercedes has developed an electric vehicle with the potential to be charged at a capacity of up to 300kW. Though not available at present, the European charging standard would, in theory, allow for the Concept EQ to be charged sufficiently to provide a range of 100km within five minutes.
3. Customisable user interface
Taking centre stage inside is a 24-inch high-definition wide screen, which displays information such as speed, range, driving data, as well as navigational information. Highly customisable, the display allows for the driver to switch between minimalistic and more information-dense views at will.
The cabin does away with traditional knobs and switches save for electric seat adjustment controls. Both the centre console and steering wheel come equipped with touch-sensitive controls, which allow for the adjustment of climate control functions and various other menus. Even the door openers and electric window lifters are controlled by touch.
Colours on the instrument display change depending on the driving mode selected and charging process. The user interface also focuses on optimal driver assistance, which provides feedback on the driver's driving style and energy saving possibilities, among other things.
4. Car-to-X communication technology
With the help of maps from its partner - HERE - the Concept EQ's systems are able to determine the precise curve radii, as well as the position and size of a roundabout. This allows the SUV to automatically adjust its speed and driving dynamics for a more comfortable ride.
5. Intuitive 3D real time maps
Working in tandem with the car's Car-to-X system, HERE's navigation platform enables the Concept EQ to display highly detailed 3D maps in real time. The main focus of this technology lies in the minimalist nature of the map while the vehicle is in motion. This means only buildings and landmarks essential for navigation are displayed while others simply fade into the background. The display also indicates the vehicle's current consumption along the way.
These are but a taste of what electric vehicles of the future have to offer, and if the present is any indicator, as is the case with the Concept EQ, we're not afraid to say that we can't wait to see what carmakers come up with next.
