Mercedes Vision EQXX shines a light on the future of automotive engineering. Many features, including the new generation Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture for compact and mid-size cars called MMA, are integrated into mass production.
Mercedes Vision EQXX can reach a range of 0.17 km with a wind resistance of 95 Cd and the ability to deliver up to 1000 percent of the energy in its batteries to the wheels.
EQXX transformed from a blank paper to a finished vehicle in just 18 months; Completed outside Stuttgart, with cooperation from Formula 1 and start-ups, partners and institutions around the world.
From Stuttgart to Bangalore, from Brixworth to Sunnyvale, simultaneous digital development efforts in different parts of the world reduced the time spent in the wind tunnel from 100 hours to 46, which means almost over 300.000 km of test drives.
In the interior design made of completely new and light materials, without animal-derived products; Materials ranging from cork to vegan silk, vegan leather alternative “Mylo”, animal-free leather alternative called Deserttex® produced from powdered cactus fibers, 100% bamboo fiber to floor carpets, and recycled waste pet bottle materials are used in floor or door upholstery.
With the energy obtained from the 117 solar cells on the roof of the EQXX, an additional range of up to 25 km can be provided.
The VISION EQXX breaks down technological barriers and takes energy efficiency to a whole new level. This high-tech electric powertrain includes light engineering and the use of sustainable materials, apart from many advances in the electric powertrain system. Incorporating a range of innovative and intelligent solutions, including advanced software, the VISION EQXX takes productivity to a whole new level.
VISION EQXX: Designed for electric mobility
Designed for the challenging and exciting journey to electric transportation, Mercedes-Benz VISION EQXX responds to the innovative demands and expectations of the modern consumer with its innovative aspect. Part of an advanced technology program, this software-based research prototype was designed to deliver one of the most efficient cars on the planet in every way.
With the efforts of Mercedes-Benz engineers and designers, in real-life conditions based on digital simulations, an efficiency of over 100 km per kWh is achieved with a consumption of less than 10 kWh per 1.000 kilometers and a range of over 9.6 kilometers on a single charge.
Mercedes-Benz has modified the automotive engineering rulebook to make a software-powered electric car that re-imagines the electric age. At the same time, it reveals a highly progressive interpretation of the essential Mercedes-Benz principles of modern luxury and emotional purity. The team focused on maximizing long-distance efficiency rather than simply increasing the size of the battery.
The VISION EQXX is an exciting, inspiring and completely realistic way forward in electric vehicle technology. In addition to improved energy efficiency, it offers meaningful answers to important problems. Sustainable materials, for example, significantly reduce their carbon footprint. The UI/UX features a new one-piece display that comes to life with precise real-time graphics and covers the entire cockpit of the vehicle. UI/UX also allows it to integrate with the car and the driver, and even mimic the functioning of the human brain. The software-driven development process that enables this is revolutionizing the way electric cars are designed.
This car shines a light on the future of automotive engineering. Many features, including the new generation Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture for compact and mid-size cars called MMA, are integrated into mass production.
New values in efficiency
Efficiency means getting more with less. This is nothing new. Mercedes-Benz has always strived for efficiency in its vehicles and has benefited consumers through continuous improvements in fuel consumption, comfort and convenience. However, electrified transportation and sustainability have changed the framework of efficiency.
Mercedes-Benz treats efficiency as a new value. It means more range with less energy, it means more luxury and convenience with less impact on nature and more electric transportation with less waste. Mercedes-Benz gives a clear idea of what high-end efficiency looks and feels like in the electric and digital age. Mercedes-Benz shines a light on sustainable long-distance electric transportation with advanced digital technologies, advanced design and intuitive operation.
Demonstrating a high level of efficiency in every aspect, from its innovative powertrain to lightweight construction and advanced thermal management to aerodynamic design, the VISION EQXX offers enhanced energy savings and superior real-life driving range.
The project transformed from a blank paper into a completed tool in just 18 months; Completed outside Stuttgart, with cooperation from Formula 1 and start-ups, partners and institutions around the world.
Leading power-transmission systems of the electric age
While the car leaves many kilometers behind in a journey, it provides a unique travel experience to the driver and passengers. What makes the VISION EQXX so special is its long-distance efficiency.
The super-efficient electric powertrain with a power of approximately 150 kW provides the power and endurance that form the basis of this outstanding long-distance runner. An engineering masterpiece in itself. The team set out with the goal of creating an electric powertrain with the perfect combination of efficiency, energy density and advanced engineering, and achieved its 95 percent efficiency target. This means that up to 95 percent of the energy from the battery reaches the wheels. This makes even more sense, considering it's only 30 percent in the most efficient internal combustion powertrain, or about 50 percent in the average long-distance runner.
The Mercedes-AMG High-Performance Powertrain (HPP) Formula 1 experts in the UK know how to evaluate every kilojoule of energy. Mercedes-Benz R&D worked hand in hand with them to redesign their powertrain and reduce system losses.
The electric powertrain in the VISION EQXX is a special unit consisting of an electromotor, transmission and power electronics with a new generation of silicon carbide. The power electronics unit is based on the unit in the upcoming Mercedes-AMG Project ONE hypercar.
Battery development in collaboration with HPP
Instead of increasing the battery size, the Mercedes-Benz and HPP team developed a completely new battery and achieved an extraordinary energy density of close to 400 Wh/lt. This advanced solution offers the possibility to fit a battery with a usable energy level of 100 kWh into the compact dimensions of the VISION EQXX.
The increase in energy density is partly due to advances in the chemistry of the anodes. Higher silicon contents and advanced compositions can store much more energy than commonly used anodes. Another feature that contributes to the energy density is the high level of integration in the battery. Developed by Mercedes-Benz R&D and HPP, this platform helped reduce overall weight while creating more space for cells. An independent partition solution for electrical and electronic (EE) components, called OneBox, saves space for cells, while this solution also provides the advantage of assembly and disassembly. The OneBox also contains components that consume less energy compared to mass-produced electric vehicles.
Tasked with pushing the limits of possibilities, the battery development team decided to use a fairly high voltage. The voltage above 900 Volts provided an extremely useful research environment for the development of power electronics. The team was able to collect a lot of valuable data and is evaluating possibilities for future mass production. The structure of the battery also contributes to efficiency. The lightweight body, for example, was designed by chassis partners Mercedes-AMG HPP and Mercedes-Grand Prix. The body is made from a unique, sustainable composite material derived from sugarcane waste, reinforced with carbon-fibre, as in Formula 1. The battery also features active cell balancing. This means that it draws energy from the cells evenly while driving and provides more endurance. The battery weighs approximately 495 kilograms, including the OneBox.
More range with solar power
The electrical system, which powers the VISION EQXX's many auxiliary systems, is powered by 117 solar cells in the roof. The range is increased by reducing the energy consumption in the high voltage system. The system can provide an additional range of up to 25 km on long-distance journeys in a single day and under ideal conditions. Solar energy is stored in a lightweight lithium-iron-phosphate battery that powers the air conditioning, lighting, infotainment system and other ancillary equipment. Mercedes-Benz and its partners are working to use solar energy to charge the high-voltage system as well.
Design and aerodynamics that maximize efficiency
Wind resistance is one of the biggest barriers to efficiency over long distances on the open road. Aerodynamic drag can have a huge impact on range. In normal long-distance driving, the average electric vehicle uses almost two-thirds of its battery capacity to fight air. The VISON EQXX redefines the rules of the game with an extremely low drag coefficient of 0.17.
The Mercedes-Benz team has a long history of advanced aerodynamic design, from the W 1937 in 125, the 1938K Streamliner in 540, to the Concept C1970 in the 111s and the current EQS. The Concept IAA in 2015 is another example of inspiration for the VISION EQXX.
The design team integrated passive and active aerodynamics into the body of the VISION EQXX, using advanced digital modeling techniques to develop solutions that reduce drag while maintaining the sensory purity of the Mercedes-Benz design language and the practicality of a road car.
The flowing lines starting from the front and extending to the rear create a strong shoulder line in the rear fender area. This natural flow ends with a sharp tail in the form of a highly aerodynamically effective tail. A glossy black panel completes the rear end with a seamless lighting unit. The waterdrop-shaped rear part integrates with the flowing lines of the roof. The retractable rear diffuser is a powerful example of the collaboration between design, aerodynamics and engineering and only comes into play at high speeds.
The air curtain/ventilation in the front bumper integrates with the rims to improve the aerodynamic efficiency of the front wheels. The system opens the cooling louvers when necessary and directs the additional cooling air through the hood. This reduces drag around the mirrors and reduces drag by reducing air going to the underbody.
Wheels and tires optimized for rolling resistance and aerodynamics
Mercedes-Benz collaborated with Bridgestone to reduce rolling resistance. Turanza Eco tires use light and environmentally friendly ENLITEN and "ological" technology that provides ultra-low rolling resistance. The tires have aerodynamically optimized sidewalls that complement the covers of the 20-inch lightweight magnesium wheels.
Light and simple interior design
VISION EQXX uses a completely new and lightweight interior design language. The interior, which differs from the traditional design approach, focuses on simplicity. This approach makes complex shapes and traditional flooring elements unnecessary. From cork to vegan silk, the influence of nature continues in the interior of the VISION EQXX. While the interior design focuses on maximum comfort and style with minimum weight, it is absolutely free of animal-derived products.
The interior features a wealth of innovative materials sourced from start-ups around the world. The AMsilk signature Biosteel® fiber in the door handles is just one example and a first in the automotive industry. Another example is the vegan leather alternative “Mylo”, which is produced from mycelium resembling the underground roots of fungi and has a bio-based certificate as it is predominantly made from renewable components found in nature. This new material is designed to be less harmful to the environment and is used in the details of the seat cushions of the VISION EQXX. The animal-free leather alternative called Deserttex® is a sustainable material made from pulverized cactus fibers combined with a sustainable bio-based polyurethane matrix and has an extremely soft surface. Floor carpets are made of 100% bamboo fiber.
It also uses recycled PET bottle waste materials for floor or door trim. In addition, DINAMICA® made from 38 percent recycled PET is used for the top of the one-piece screen, doors and headliner, as well as UBQ material made from household waste.
BIONEQXX casting
BIONEQXX is currently used in the rear of the VISION EQXX, the largest aluminum structural casting in Mercedes-Benz. This structure was developed in-house by Mercedes-Benz using digital techniques and a software approach completely unique in the automotive industry and offers optimum functionality in compact dimensions. The team developed this impressive and manufacturable one-piece cast structure in just four months. One-piece BIONEQXX casting offers very high rigidity and excellent crash performance with an extremely light structure.
BIONICAST shock towers
BIONICAST, a registered trademark of Mercedes-Benz, forms the shock absorber towers that house the car's front suspension components. Like the BIONEQXX casting, the goal here is to reduce weight and save around four kilograms compared to conventional pressed towers. The bracket that carries the windshield wipers and the motor on the VISION EQXX was also designed with bionic engineering principles.
Lightweight design, safety and sustainability with advanced body materials
VISION EQXX has advanced materials that provide functionality and safety. Most of these materials will be used in the development of future production models.
The MS1500 ultra-high-strength steel used in the VISION EQXX is a first for Mercedes-Benz white body application. This material provides excellent occupant protection in the event of a collision with its high strength level while keeping weight to a minimum. Low CO100 flat steel, produced with 2 percent scrap using the electric arc furnace technique, is also one of the first white body applications in Mercedes-Benz. The collaboration between Mercedes-Benz AG and Salzgitter Flachstahl GmbH brought with it the 2 MATERIALICA Design + Technology Gold Award in the category “CO2021-Efficiency”.
The doors of the VISION EQXX are manufactured from hybrid components of aluminum reinforced CFRP and GFRP (carbon and glass fiber reinforced plastics). In addition to its weight advantages, this design provides a high balance of rigidity and flexibility in the event of a collision. In addition, a new polyamide foam strengthens the bottom edge of the door and optimizes energy absorption in a side impact.
Aluminum brake discs reduce mass and help reduce weight compared to steel discs. Designed by Mercedes-Benz Advanced Engineering, this braking system features zero wear, while an innovative coating reduces brake dust emissions by up to 90 percent. In addition, new glass fiber reinforced plastic springs developed with Rheinmetall Automotive help reduce weight compared to conventional coil springs.
UI/UX in VISION EQXX – travel aid without bias
When you go on a journey, it's good to have someone with you for the journey. A travel aid can assist with navigation, be responsible for choosing music or keep road notes and point out points of interest or interesting information along the way. It can also give hints about driving style. The VISION EQXX does all this, supporting the driver.
VISION EQXX offers a unique interface with very special graphics and an adaptable design. The UI (User Interface) instantly responds to the driver's needs with real-time graphics, enabling new digital worlds that bring the real world to the vehicle.
The user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) in VISION EQXX lead users into a highly responsive, intelligent and software-driven future. With its impressive appearance, intuitive use and working principle in harmony with the human mind, the screen occupies an area of 47,5 inches between the two A-pillars. The thin and light LED display with 8K (7680×660 pixels) resolution acts as a portal connecting the driver and passengers with the car and the outside world, transforming according to the driver's needs, taking care of the passengers, turning the journey into a luxurious experience.
The Mercedes-Benz team has teamed up with navigation specialist NAVIS Automotive Systems inc. to develop the first real-time 3D navigation system on a screen of this size. Worked with (NAVIS-AMS). It offers smooth zooming and panning functions up to 3 meters from the satellite view in 10-D city display.
Travel assistant, a further development of the “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant, was developed in collaboration with Mercedes-Benz engineers and Sonantic. The team gave “Hey Mercedes” its unique character and personality with its machine learning function. Apart from its impressive and realistic appearance, the system takes the communication between driver and car to a whole new level by making it more natural and intuitive.
Efficient use of energy and information
The one-piece screen draws attention with its energy efficiency. The mini-LED backlight consists of over 3.000 dimming zones. Certain parts of the screen only consume power when needed.
The screen adapts itself to the type of content. For example, in an urban area, the visualization of the surrounding buildings helps provide orientation between busy streets. However, on the highway or open road, the level of detail is reduced to provide a clearer overview. The system also makes driving more efficient. From energy flow to terrain, battery status, and even the direction and intensity of wind and sun, the efficiency assistant collects all available information and recommends the most efficient driving style. Support is further enhanced by the VISION EQXX's ability to use map data and predict what lies ahead to assist the driver in maximizing efficiency.
The simplicity of the interface is a further development of the "Zero Layer" concept first used in EQS, which makes driver-vehicle interaction easier by giving up sub-menus. The system is extremely proactive, showing what the driver needs when they need it, with an intuitive zoom feature that provides access to all functions. In addition, if the driver travels alone, the passenger side of the screen is turned off, contributing to energy savings.
Include sound in the equation
The sound system in the VISION EQXX integrates with the UI/UX for an immersive 4-D experience with high energy efficiency. The audio system can be a major energy consumer, so Mercedes-Benz engineers developed a solution that optimizes the audio experience while minimizing energy consumption. Reducing the total number of speakers and positioning them very close to passengers significantly reduces the distance the sound travels. Two wideband speakers located in each headrest are paired with a bass exciter in each seat. The VISION EQXX uses stimulants for vehicle sounds, haptic feedback and audible warning outside of normal sound reproduction. In addition, the placement of the sound system reduces energy consumption and enables multiple sound zones. Apart from that, the productivity assistant takes advantage of the audio system to convey suggestions to the driver through a series of intuitive voice “tips”.
Software-assisted digital development and testing process
The global journey towards electric mobility is powered by advanced software and digital processes. Highly advanced digital tools such as augmented and virtual reality eliminate the need for time-consuming physical models. It also facilitated the simultaneous development of teams working in different parts of the world, from Stuttgart (Germany) to Bangalore (India) and Brixworth (UK) to Sunnyvale (California). Intense digitization has also meant that almost over 100 km of test drives are covered, while reducing the time spent in the wind tunnel from 46 hours to 300.000. This highly effective and efficient approach to digital development demonstrates that many innovations in the VISION EQXX can be quickly adapted for mass production.
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