Mercedes-Benz wants to take electric range and efficiency to the next level. They’re calling it Vision EQXX.
Mercedes-Benz is the latest automaker to make a grab for the title of the longest-range electric vehicle with the reveal of the Vision EQXX, a solar-powered concept car capable of exceeding 1,000 kilometres (648 miles) on a single charge.
Designed for electromobility road trips, the German automaker is determined to redefine range and efficiency for electric vehicles in the electric era. In short, Mercedes-Benz wants to lead the way in creating electric cars with outstanding range and exceptional efficiency, which will make electric-powered cars suitable for every journey and will speed adoption.
With its sporty intentions and sleek, futuristic design, the Vision EQXX will likely serve as the basis for a production car that could end up rivalling other luxury EVs like the Porsche Taycan, Audi E-tron GT, and Tesla Roadster.
There’s a reason why road trips have been a cultural touchstone for at least 70 years. It’s told stories from the highway in books, movies, and music. The road trip defines freedom, individuality, the very spirit of the automobile and the passing world. This urge to explore, discover and revel in the world beyond our horizon is part of what it is to be human.
The journey to electric mobility is a road trip; as exhilarating as it is challenging, as unknown as it is certain. The Mercedes-Benz Vision EQXX is a vehicle designed for that road trip. It answers the progressive demands of a modern generation of customers for emotionality through innovation.
Part of a far-reaching technology programme, this software-defined research prototype was engineered with creativity, ingenuity, and determination to deliver one of the planet’s most efficient cars – in every respect.
The result of this is an efficiency masterpiece that, based on internal digital simulations in real-life traffic conditions, will be capable of exceeding 1,000 kilometres on a single charge with an outstanding energy consumption of less than 10 kWh per 100 kilometres.
By ripping up the automotive engineering rule book, Mercedes-Benz has built a software-driven electric car that re-imagines the road trip for the electric era. At the same time, it presents a highly progressive interpretation of the fundamental Mercedes-Benz principles of modern luxury and Sensual Purity.
Rather than simply increasing the size of the battery, the cross-functional, international team focused on maximising long-distance efficiency. They pulled out all the stops in drivetrain efficiency, energy density, aerodynamics, and lightweight design.
Improvements are also centred toward improving aero efficiency with a target for a drag coefficient of cd 0.175. Ultra-low-rolling-resistance tyres with optimised aerodynamic geometry will also be used, combined with lightweight magnesium wheels for an increased range.
The Vision EQXX will also utilise innovatively recycled and plant-based materials to remove waste from landfills and lower carbon footprint. Inspired by natural forms and in partnership with innovative start-ups, Mercedes engineers will use advanced digital tools to lower weight and reduce waste by removing excess material assisted by 3D printing.
As part of its design, the Vision EQXX will feature ultra-thin roof panels that feed into the battery system for up to 25 km of extra range. The model’s intuitive and intelligent user interface and user experience with guidance and assistance for efficient driving bring even closer harmony for the electric age.
