Mercedes-Benz’s 620-miler Halo BEV Close to Market Ready
Mercedes-Benz claims it is on the cusp of bringing a 1,000km (620-mile) range halo BEV model to market by combining the best of currently available technologies.
As an illustration, it says its Vision EQXX concept with only use the same power output as a 1.0-liter ICE powertrain to achieve an equivalent fossil-fuel consumption rating of 1-liter per 100km or 235mpg US and 282mpg UK. This is thanks to a fixation on key vehicle areas including:
- Radical new drivetrain system designed and built in-house claiming an efficiency of 95% from battery to wheels;
- Compact battery pack holding almost 100 kWh of energy, yet has 50% less volume and is 30% lighter than the already benchmark pack in its EQS;
- A drag coefficient of cd 0.175;
- Lightweighting to an overall vehicle weight of 1,750kgs (lbs) by using advanced digital tools to lower weight and reduce waste by removing excess material assisted by 3D printing;
- Ultra-low-rolling-resistance tires with an aerodynamic geometry, magnesium alloy wheels and brake discs made from aluminum alloy;
- Ultra-thin solar power roof panels feed the battery system for up to 25km (13.5 miles) of extra range;
- A Software-driven development approach achieving efficiency goals and a rapid development process, including its new battery management system.
Ola Källenius, chairman of the board of management of Daimler and Mercedes-Benz, said: “Just one-and-a-half years ago, we started this project leading to the most efficient Mercedes-Benz ever built – with an outstanding energy consumption of less than 10 kWh per 100 kilometers. It has a range of more than 1,000 kilometers on a single charge using a battery that would fit even into a compact vehicle. The Vision EQXX is an advanced car in so many dimensions – and it even looks stunning and futuristic. With that, it underlines where our entire company is headed: We will build the world’s most desirable electric cars.”
— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in Europe. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_
