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Mercedes-Benz made waves at the 2022 Consumer Electronics Show with the debut of their revolutionary concept vehicle, the Vision EQXX. This cutting-edge electric vehicle (EV) not only boasts a stunning design but also achieves remarkable feats in efficiency and range.
Featuring an astonishingly low drag coefficient of 0.17, the Vision EQXX sets the benchmark for aerodynamic excellence, surpassing any car produced to date. By combining this exceptional aerodynamic design with a 30% lighter, 100-kilowatt hour (kWh) battery, Mercedes-Benz has achieved a groundbreaking range of over 620 miles on a single charge. To put it into perspective, this means you could drive from Los Angeles to New York City with only four stops to charge, far surpassing the current record held by the Lucid Air with a range of 517 miles.
While the rooftop and back window are equipped with solar panels, their main function is to generate 12-volt power for the car’s internal systems, offering energy-saving benefits. Although these solar panels don’t contribute directly to the car’s mileage like the recently announced Lightyear, they still represent a step towards greater energy efficiency.
Despite its remarkable features, the Vision EQXX is primarily a concept car and unlikely to go into production. However, it serves as a source of inspiration for future electric Mercedes-Benz vehicles. The German automaker spent 18 months developing this visionary concept, showcasing their commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric mobility.
Mercedes-Benz has seen a significant surge in EV sales in 2023, tripling their figures from the first quarter of 2022. This growth aligns with the broader trend of electric vehicles, which accounted for 10% of all new car sales in 2022, up from 8.3% in 2021. Moreover, the solar-powered sector is also on the cusp of a major expansion, with market projections anticipating a 37% growth by 2030.
The rising popularity of EVs not only benefits the environment by reducing air pollution but also contributes to the ongoing decline in EV prices, making them more accessible to a wider audience.
While the Vision EQXX may not grace your local streets, its technology is already finding its way into an upcoming Mercedes-Benz vehicle. The company is currently working on an EV model, similar in size to the CLA, that draws inspiration from the sleek aesthetics of the concept car and is expected to incorporate similar battery advancements.
Anticipate the arrival of this four-door sedan in late 2024, marking another significant milestone in Mercedes-Benz’s electric journey.
