To mark the opening of an engineering centre and design studio in Beijing, Mercedes-Benz has revealed the G-Code. This so-called Sports Utility Coupé (SUC) may herald a future small SUV.
Despite its 4.1m length, the G-Code is a 2+2, as can be guessed the shortness of the counter-opening rear doors. It is extremely wide for such a small vehicle (1.9m), 1.5 high and has 21-inch wheels, while A the pillars are glazed over and exterior mirrors are replaced by retractable cameras. Two electric mini-scooters are stowed in the boot.
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For the interior, Mercedes-Benz’s designers have done away with conventional adjustment options for steering wheel, seat and so on, by allowing the driver to save preferred settings to a smartphone. Upon activation, the instrument panel and pedals also move into position.
Shell-like seats use a mix of carbon fibre and are equipped with 3D body scanners. Depending on the measured values, massage, heating or cooling functions are automatically activated so as to help prevent fatigue or eliminate muscle tension.
The G-Code has a front-mounted, turbocharged combustion engine which runs on hydrogen and drives the front wheels. An electric motor sends drive to the rear axle and transmits its power selectively to the two wheels via a dual multi-disc clutch.
In addition to its power being topped up by regenerative braking or else plugged-in when parked, there is another option: multi-voltaic silver paint. On the one hand this acts like a giant solar cell, while on the other, it is charged electrostatically by wind when the vehicle is either moving or stationary. These electrical charges are tapped and likewise used for the methane and hydrogen synthesis. Finally, the suspension aids in the generation of electricity. Springs and dampers are hydraulic and networked via a central control unit. The rebound of the springs and dampers and thus the flow of hydraulic fluid drives a compact current generator.
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By GlobalDataDaimler is said to be looking into at least one additional product for the B-SUV segment: a smart ‘formore’ or ‘forsports’. The surprise appearance of the G-Code suggests that the on-again/off-again development of a related sub-GLA model might now be underway once more. If not, Audi’s future Q1 looks set to have this segment to itself.
