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This is Mercedes’ idea of an executive saloon of the future. It’s called the Vision EQXX, and it’s a C-Class-sized concept car showcasing the latest in electric vehicle technology. Not only does it come with a glorious aerodynamic shape, but it also includes a high-voltage battery system and an innovative interior. But the most important thing is its efficiency. Whereas the already highly efficient EQS saloon can use around 15- to 20kW of electricity per 100km, the EQXX will use less than 10kW per 100km. So, while its battery only holds just under 100kW of energy, the car has more than 1,000km of range. That’s thanks to the low-drag shape, lightweight construction and cleverly designed battery, which is 50 per cent smaller than the similarly capacious battery pack in the EQS. All of that is technology we can expect to see on an electric Mercedes in the coming years.
What will its rivals be?
With no plans to put the Vision EQXX on sale, the concept car doesn’t have to worry about competition. However, the car is roughly the same size as the existing C-Class saloon, and the technology it highlights may well make its way into the executive cars of the not-too-distant future.
Any tech info?
Technology is key to the Vision EQXX, but it comes in many different forms – and all are designed to make the car more efficient. Among the most important is the motorsport-inspired battery technology, which sees the battery become smaller and lighter without reducing capacity. There’s also a deployable diffuser that extends to improve the aerodynamics when necessary, and solar panels on the roof to generate extra electricity. Then there’s the cabin, which has a full-width LCD display that’s thinner and lighter than normal, while the car’s virtual assistant can help you to drive more efficiently. Even the car’s basic skeleton has been computer designed to ensure there’s no unnecessary metal, making it lighter and improving the car’s range.
What will the range be like?
Mercedes-Benz has no intention to sell the Vision EQXX in its current form, but that isn’t to say it won’t shape the Mercedes-Benz range of the future. The German company plans to use the technology created for the Vision EQXX in upcoming electric vehicles, with the lightweight construction and virtual assistant expected to feature prominently. Mercedes even expects the computer modelling methods used for this concept to help the company develop new models faster in the future.
Expectations?
As a concept car, Mercedes won’t have much in the way of expectations for the Vision EQXX, but the technology inside is set to underpin future vehicles. Developed versions of the EQXX’s clever structure, high-tech interior and high-voltage battery system may well find themselves competing with the engineering expertise of Mercedes’ illustrious rivals.