Mercedes reveals new G-Code concept in China

Mercedes-BenzMercedes-BenzGermany, 1924 > present197 models
9852 photos
33 videos
is taking the first steps towards what may well become a model below the A-ClassMercedes-Benz A-Class Gen.3 [W 176]Germany, 2012 > present33 versions
107 photos
range and will be compete with the upcoming Q1. The brand unveiled the G-CodeMercedes-Benz G-CodeGermany, 2014 > 2014range, a four-seater hydrogen-electric vehicle.

The new SUV will be part of a new strategy to attract younger drivers to the German brand. The project was presented at the opening ceremony of the new Mercedes infrastructure of Research and Development in Beijing, China.

The responsibility for the design of the G-Code was from the design director at Mercedes, Gorden Wagener, in a collaboration between the Chinese and German teams. The vehicle was inspired by the modern lifestyle of the young Asian society.

The G-Code has a contemporary design with a five-door hatchback style with short overhangs at both ends. The vehicle has some elements of the current design of the German brand, including the two-blade grille, the angular design of the headlamps, prominent wheel arches, heavy structured surfaces and also a single piece tailgate.

Among the design details that stand out the most is the wraparound windshield that gives the feeling of a floating roof. To provide an additional visual effect there is back lighting on the grille in three different colors, which change depending on the driving mode. The mirrors were replaced by cameras placed in retractable arms in the upper zone of the A-pillars. In a row of LEDs across the width of the G-Code designers have placed the direction change indicators, rear lights and brake lights.

Compared to the current GLAMercedes-Benz GLA-ClassGermany, 2013 > present29 versions
64 photos
, the G-Code is 317mm shorter, 96mm wider and 6mm taller. This indicates the willingness of Mercedes to compete with models like the Audi Q1, creating a new class under the current compact range.

Regarding the engine shown in the G-Code, Mercedes has not revealed many details. The brand only states that it is state-of-art technology that combines a combustion engine with hydrogen and an electric enginethat drives the rear axle. The powertrain is an evolution of the one who will be featured in the B-Class Fuel Cell which is planned for 2017. The engine was combined with a double clutch transmission and a propelshaft which allows the combination of the two sources of energy.

The engine allows the vehicle to be driven in three different modes: electric Hybrid eDrive, hydrogen-electric Hybrid Eco and hydrogen-electric Hybrid Sport. Depending on the mode the vehicle can move in front wheel drive with the combustion engine, in rear-wheel drive with the electric motor or in all-wheel drive with both engines operating together.

The concepts also uses two new technologies to generate energy. The first of these technologies is the "multi-voltaic" painting that in addition of functioning as a solar panel also regenerates electrostatic energy when the wind passes over the surface. The second novelty is described as a "power-on-the-move suspension" in which the movement of the springs and shock absorbers is used to power a generator to create electricity hydraulically.