Is Mercedes-Benz an unlikely choice to lead the movement toward electric development and a range of EVs for the future? No, this brand is the perfect leader.
The luxury brand of Mercedes-Benz already gives us some EVs as they work on updating and transforming their entire lineup to nothing but electric vehicles for the future. Let’s see where this luxury brand is and find out if an electrified G-Wagen is in the future plans for this brand.
To do this, we look at a recent interview between Ola Kallenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz, and a group of reporters, including those from Green Car Reports at the Paris Auto Show.
Is Mercedes-Benz Driving Momentum for the Future of EVs?
Not entirely. The current lineup of EVs from this brand is expanding naturally, and the momentum is building on its own. The Mercedes-Benz brand began by electrifying one of the most popular sedans in the world in the S-Class to give us the new EQS Sedan. This was followed by the EQS SUV, and now we have the EQE. Several new models are on the way that will wear the EQ name to signify they are part of the electric future of this brand.
Is the Current Lack of Infrastructure a Concern for this Brand?
Currently, Mercedes-Benz is fully invested in the electric development of the infrastructure as much as the vehicles being built. This brand is partnered with energy companies around the world to have over 850,000 accessible charging points for drivers. The one area where the infrastructure is currently underdeveloped is in Japan. This could be a focus for the future, with a focus on energy partners growing the infrastructure in this and other underserved global auto markets. The infrastructure is a sticking point for some automakers, but various global governments are actively working to build up this part of the EV world.
Is Mercedes-Benz Working to Improve the EQXX Platform?
Of course, they are. The EV models we see in 2024-2026 could be vastly different and improved compared to the models we already see today. If a vehicle were built on the EQXX platform without many of the luxury qualities that draw energy, it would be much more efficient than when the luxury features are added. The lineup of electrified Mercedes-Benz models continues to expand, and with that, the EQXX platform continues to improve.
Will the G-Wagen Ride on the EQXX Platform?
As the team at Mercedes-Benz continues with the electric development of its vehicles, the G-Wagen receives special attention and consideration. Even though nearly all MB EVs will ride in the EQXX platform, the G-Wagen will not. This electrified and unique luxury SUV will ride on its own platform and become its own vehicle. This means the G will have special attention and offer the upscale tech and capabilities we associate with this top-level luxury off-road SUV. The G-Wagen might have some items that could trickle down to some of the other electric vehicles from this brand.
Which EVs Will Have the New 800-Volt Architecture?
The next step forward for Mercedes-Benz is to develop the 800-volt architecture that brings exceptional power to these EVS. The change will be gradual, but the G-Wagen and some future electric vehicles will benefit from this incredible architecture. A new platform, called MMA, will be the place we see this power delivery for future models. Could this architecture become commonplace in the MB world? As it becomes the norm for this luxury brand it certainly will be an expectation.
Is the EQC heading to North America?
We should expect a full lineup of electric vehicles from Mercedes-Benz going forward. The next platform used is the MB.EA and it will be including the EQC, which should be a midsize crossover electric sedan from this brand. It’s also possible we’ll see the SUV version of this car and both might arrive around 2025. The momentum takes Mercedes-Benz’s electric development forward to give us more vehicles with electric powertrains to enjoy. Eventually, the entire lineup from Mercedes-Benz will feature electric powertrains, making the complete transition away from traditional gasoline powertrains.
Where are Mercedes-Benz Building New Massive Factories?
There are two massive Mercedes-Benz facilities being built that can be called gigafactories. One is located in the United States and is already under construction, while the other is expected to be built in Hungary and hasn’t begun construction yet. In China, the Mercedes-Benz factories are essentially completed, giving the company three plants that serve some of the largest automotive markets in the world. This should position the brand effectively to build future EVs where they are being sold, which has been part of the transition for most automakers over the last several decades.
Is Mercedes-Benz Working on Battery Recycling?
Yes, this company does have a focus on recycling, starting with its own recycling plant in southern Germany. This allows Mercedes-Benz to continue electric development by studying the requirements to recycle, reuse, and improve the lifespan of some of these electric batteries. Electric batteries from EVs have high economic value, and recycling these batteries for additional uses is certainly part of the conversation. In some cases, these EV batteries won’t need to be recycled for at least ten more years, but most automakers need to be prepared for the time when this will occur.
Are the Mercedes-Benz EVs Shaping the Future of Our New Auto World?
Yes, the proof that the EQS and EQE in both sedan and SUV forms are formidable and attractive to many luxury buyers makes it easy to see how healthy and useful these two models can be already. The EVA2 vehicles are the cornerstone of this brand, which other automakers will work to match over the next few years. We can certainly see how this brand has a clear path to the EV future, which has a goal date of 2030 and beyond. The electric future is bright for this brand as Mercedes-Benz continues to be a leader in this new market.
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