Mercedes-Benz has revealed the latest in its growing line of hardcore four-wheel-drive prototypes, the EQC 4x4² - a one-off conceived to explore the ultimate off-road capability of the German car maker’s first dedicated electric model, the Mercedes EQC.
The fully operational EQC 4x4² is based on the EQC 400 4Matic, complete with a twin-motor electric drive system developing 408bhp and 562lb ft of torque.
Together with its added off-road focus, it is claimed to preview the sort of engineering details that Mercedes is considering for upcoming models from its newly announced G sub-brand, which is modelled on the operations of AMG and Maybach. The G sub-brand will produce a new series of models – including a pure-electric version of the G-Class – aimed at buyers seeking extreme off-road performance.
The high-riding electric SUV prototype was created by a small team headed by Jürgen Eberle, a Mercedes-Benz development engineer who also played a key role in the earlier G500 4x4², which reached limited production after its unveiling in 2015, and the E-Class All Terrain 4x4².
Eberle said: “Despite the trend towards electric vehicles right now, there remains great enthusiasm for traditional off-roaders. Our aim was to combine these two with a car that provides the best of both worlds – fully electric but with the ability to go off road in a serious way.”
To provide the EQC 4x4² with the ability to take it well away from the bitumen, it receives heavily reworked suspension with multi-link portal axles that serve to site the wheels much lower than the axle hubs for vastly increased ground clearance. A similar process was undertaken with the G500 4x4² and E400 All Terrain 4x4². Further modifications include increased track widths and 20in wheels from the old R-Class shod with 285/50-profile Cooper Zeon tyres.
Together, they have necessitated the fitment of new plastic wheel-arch extensions to keep it compliant with Germany’s vehicle registration process. They not only to increase the overall width of the standard EQC by a full 200mm but also provide it with a toughened appearance fully befitting its off-road brief.
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@ 289
Maximum torque being available instantly is not the same as ONLY maximum torque being available.
Apply less current and you will have less torque.
But yes, they will definitely need a 'snow' mode in EVs.
PB stunt.
It just looks odd, only done for the EV cudos, this'll never get made as is.
No low range gears = no problem
Presumably since max torque is available from zero revs with an electric motor, no off-roader thus powered would need a low range box.
@ Tom Chet
I have been thinking about this too, and have come to the conclusion that without a low range box, the massive torque would actually overcome grip and spin wheels (particularly in snow or mud) .....not whats needed, so unless there is some way to effectively control the instant grunt something will be needed.
What aboiut downhill retardation.....do you rely on an electric motors ability to hold the car on a slope?
I guess its all irrelevant though as few actually use their vehicles off road.