The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is set to receive an electric counterpart known as the EQG. In a recent media drive event for the 2024 S 63 E Performance, Michael Schiebe, CEO of Mercedes-AMG, confirmed that the EQG will be equipped with four electric motors mounted near the wheels. This decision was made to enhance the off-road capabilities of the vehicle and take them to an even higher level.
Initially rumored to be released towards the end of this year, Schiebe stated that the EQG will be available next year. This model was initially introduced as the EQG Concept in 2021, which showcased four motors located near the wheels and a 2-speed transfer case for off-road gear reduction. While it was not mentioned by Schiebe, the confirmation of the four electric motors suggests that the EQG may not feature a 2-speed gearbox.
There have been speculations that the EQG could potentially incorporate in-wheel hub motors similar to those used in the Lordstown Endurance electric pickup truck. However, there is no official confirmation of Mercedes working on hub motors for the EQG. It is worth noting that hub motors add unsprung weight at the wheels, which can negatively impact the vehicle’s ride quality.
An alternative possibility for the EQG’s powertrain is the use of Mercedes’ new axial flux motors, which were showcased in the Vision One-Eleven supercar concept. Shiebe mentioned that these motors are significantly lighter and more efficient compared to traditional radial flux motors. Lucid, another electric vehicle manufacturer, utilizes axial flux motors that offer impressive performance and are smaller in size compared to their competitors.
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The EQG’s four-motor configuration aligns it with other off-road capable vehicles like the Rivian R1S and R1T. The Rivian models feature four in-board motors, located next to each other on each axle in the center of the vehicle. Based on the available information, it appears that Mercedes’ solution for the EQG may adopt a similar setup.
While details regarding the EQG’s power output and battery pack size have not been released by Mercedes, the company has assured that the vehicle will possess all the off-road capabilities of the traditional gas-powered G-Class. The use of an electric powertrain with four motors allows for precise control of power delivery and individual control of each motor, which could potentially enhance the EQG’s off-road performance even further.
It is worth mentioning that last year, Mercedes released a video showcasing an EQG prototype performing a “G turn” maneuver, where the vehicle spun in place. This maneuver was also demonstrated by a Rivian R1T prototype, referred to as a “tank turn,” achieved by spinning the motors on each axle in opposite directions. However, Rivian has since canceled the development of this feature.
In conclusion, the Mercedes-Benz EQG is an upcoming electric adaptation of the G-Class SUV. Its powertrain will consist of four electric motors mounted near the wheels to enhance off-road capabilities. Although rumors of in-wheel hub motors have circulated, it remains uncertain if Mercedes will incorporate this technology. Alternatively, the EQG may utilize Mercedes’ new axial flux motors showcased in the Vision One-Eleven concept. The EQG’s four-motor configuration aligns it with other off-road capable vehicles such as the Rivian R1S and R1T. While specific power and battery details are undisclosed, Mercedes assures that the EQG will possess the same off-road capability as its gas-powered counterpart. The precise control offered by the electric powertrain and individual motor control could potentially enhance the EQG’s performance even further.
