Mercedes Vision EQXX concept debuts with 1000 km range

KUALA LUMPUR: An electric vehicle capable of running 1000 km (621 miles) on a single charge is finally here. We are talking about the Mercedes Vision EQXX concept, which has just made its global debut in the United States. The automaker confirmed that the aerodynamically-optimized electric couple concept will not enter production in this form; instead, it will inspire the upcoming Mercedes-Benz electric cars.

The next-generation design of the Vision EQXX is inspired by natural shapes, which is significantly different from the ongoing Mercedes cars. The vehicle tips the scale at 1,750 kgs thanks to lightweight materials such as magnesium wheels, aluminum alloy brake discs, doors made of CFRP (carbon and glass-reinforced plastic). On the slim roof, there are ultra-thin solar panels whose solar cells contribute 25 km to the electric driving range.

The concept carries a 50% smaller and 30% lighter battery as compared to the EQS 450+. Its total weight is rated at 495 kgs. The engineers used sustainable composite material like sugar cane waste as a part of the battery frame.

Joerg Bartels, Director of Vehicle Integration at Mercedes-Benz AG, said, “Finding high electricity sounds like easy, but it is technically difficult. The simplest method is to use a larger battery. However, because of its size and weight, this makes it easy to do well. It is not the smartest way to go, nor is it the misuse of valuables. With the Vision EQXX project, we have found new ways to increase the volume of the electric car. And we are upgrading our skills to a very good level."

Mercedes further confirmed that the drive unit of the vehicle, comprising a motor, transmission, and power electronics is developed in association with the eight-time Formula 1 championship-winning Mercedes-AMG High-Performance Powertrains (HPP). The electric motor kicks out a maximum power output of 204 hp. 

Inside the cabin, this hi-tech concept boasts a massive 8K touch screen that measures 47.5 inches. Although the screen size is less than 56-inch Hyperscreen available on the EQS, it is made from one single panel rather than three panels available on the latter. The screen is paired with an AI system for intuitive operation and NAVIS Automotive Systems that supports real-time 3D navigation.

The EQXX interior also features sustainable materials like seats made from Dessertex, which is derived from cacti. It gets details from mycelium, a vegan leather made from mushrooms. 

What are your thoughts on the Mercedes Vision EQXX concept vehicles, tell us in the comments.

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