The Mercedes-Benz G-Class it gets an electric sibling, the EQG, and last week the company confirmed some information about its powertrain.
For a media drive a 2024 S 63 E PerformanceMichael Schiebe, CEO of Mercedes-AMG, said: “We are mounting four electric motors very close to the wheels to make sure that the off-road capabilities are up to par again.”
Schiebe also said EQG will be available next year. Earlier reports suggested that it could arrive later this year.
The EQG has been rumored to have four electric motors since its debut EQG concept in 2021. The concept featured four motors near the wheels and a 2-speed transmission for downshifting. However, this news confirms that there will be four electric motors near the wheels, although Schiebe did not mention the 2-speed transmission.
News indicates that the EQC may have hub motors, such as Lordstown Endurance electric van. However, there is no indication that Mercedes is working on brain engines. Hub motors would place the EQG with unsprung weight on the wheels, reducing ride quality.
EQG can use the brand’s new Axial Flux Motors, which the Vision One-Eleven supercar concept was introduced last week. Mercedes is working on these motors, and Shiebe said they weigh a third of the weight of radial flux motors, take up a third of the space and are more efficient. Lucid uses axial flux motors; each capable of up to 670 hp and smaller than most competitors’ engines.
Vehicles such as Rivian R1S and R1T, which also boast plenty of off-road capabilities, have four engines. These engines are located within each axle, next to each other, in the middle of the vehicle. It looks like the Mercedes solution could split the difference.
Last year, Mercedes released a video Prototype EQG performing a so-called ‘G turn’ in which it rotated in place. The Rivian R1T prototype performed the same type of turn, although it was called a “tank turn” and was made possible by rotating the motors on each axis in opposite directions. Rivian has since canceled development of this feature.
Mercedes has not released information about how much power the engines will produce or how big the battery pack will be. But the company said the EQG will have all the off-road capabilities of the gas-powered G-Class. The precise control of power offered by the electric powertrain and the unique control provided by the four motors indicate that it can deliver even more power.
This article was originally published by Motor Authorityeditorial partner ClassicCars.com
