The first pictures of the Mercedes-AMG electric super-SUV prototype, which was previewed last month in a sketch, are finally out. Underpinned by the brand new AMG.EA architecture, the electric GT SUV, which is likely to be its name in production avatar. The SUV will be the second model to be built on this platfom after a four-door coupe, photos of which were released earlier this year. Launching in 2027, the SUV will rival the Lotus Eletre and the upcoming Porsche Cayenne electric.
- AMG electric SUV shares its underpinnings with 4-door coupe counterpart
- To be produced in Mercedes’ Sindelfingen facility in Germany
- Has Active Ride Control (ARC) with a hydraulic pump for each wheel
Mercedes-AMG electric SUV platform, specs
This new electric SUV is being developed entirely by AMG, rather than being based on a current model like the EQS SUV. The AMG.EA architecture will allow for 800V and twin and three axial-flux electric motors setups, each developing 486hp and 800Nm, with total outputs expected to be well over 1,000hp. These motors have been developed by Yasa, the Oxfordshire-based firm owned by Mercedes-Benz.
Not much is known about the cell pack, but according to our sister publication, Autocar UK, it will adopt a different cell chemistry tuned for better efficiency and range than the NMC batteries used in existing electric AMG models. AMG’s dedicated SUV will be heavily focused on road-going performance but insiders have also told Autocar UK that it will offer variable ride height control to improve ground clearance in off-road use. It’s further programmed to automatically reduce ride height at higher speeds for added aerodynamic efficiency.
Extensive development is also being done on heat management, especially around liquid cooling, to support much faster charging rates. Additional new software developments and inverter technology developed in partnership with Mercedes’ High Performance Powertrain division in Brixworth are also on the way.
Mercedes-AMG electric SUV: what else is known?
Length-wise, the AMG electric SUV will slot in between the EQE and EQS SUVs, which measure 4,863 and 5,125mm, respectively. A new design for the signature Panamericana grille will be seen up front, together with LED headlights housing three-pointed star graphics. The prototypes also reveal that the design will incorporate elements that provide clear visual connections with its coupe counterpart. However, most of the other elements remain under wraps.
Besides flared wheel arches and wide rear-end flanks, we could spot EQS SUV-inspired flush-fitting door handles for aerodynamic efficiency. It will maintain a “relatively upright tailgate and angled rear window” for “the best balance between form and load-carrying space”, Autocar UK reported citing internal sources. Inside, it will adopt a unique design for the dashboard and displays, together with new AMG.OS software.
Production of the new SUV will take place alongside the upcoming saloon at Mercedes’ Sindelfingen facility in Germany.
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