Mercedes-Benz’s Vision EQXX claims 1,000 km on a single charge – Car News

Undertaking its third journey spanning over 1,000 kms, the VISION EQXX technology program proved its mettle in traversing the Arabian Desert while maintaining energy efficiency. Across a challenging terrain encompassing busy city streets and open desert, the test vehicle showcased electric power consumption of merely 7.4 kWh per 100 km, equivalent to 8.4 miles (13.51 km) per kWh), according to an official release. 

This equates to approximately 0.9 litres/100 km or 282 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) for a petrol-fueled vehicle. Even in ambient temperatures reaching up to 34 degrees Celsius (93 degrees Fahrenheit), the VISION EQXX surpassed its previous performance by a significant margin.

Testing efficiency in the Middle East: Third expedition of VISION EQXX

Commencing from the Mercedes-Benz Center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the efficiency drive across the Arabian Peninsula culminated at the recently inaugurated Mercedes-Benz Brand Centre in Dubai, UAE. Covering a distance of 1,010 kms (627.6 miles), the journey was completed in a total driving time of 14 hours and 42 minutes. 

Departing from Riyadh at 4:15 am. with a fully charged battery, the VISION EQXX arrived in Dubai at 7:57 pm. with 309 kms (192 miles) of range still remaining. The route encompassed urban and suburban stretches in both Riyadh and Dubai, navigating through heavy traffic as well as extended highway sections across the desert terrain, as per the release.

Opportunity for further technological evaluation

Having already demonstrated its capability to cover well more than 1,000 kms on a single charge in previous expeditions, the VISION EQXX aimed to optimise efficiency across all aspects and evaluate system performance under extreme desert conditions. The arid desert environment, with temperatures soaring up to 34 degrees Celsius, provided a rigorous test for the car’s advanced thermal management system, the release noted. 

The intelligent on-demand system effectively regulated the temperature of the electric drivetrain and cabin, with the air conditioning system operational throughout the journey, minimising energy consumption due to the integration of a multi-source heat pump. The insights gained from this expedition will inform the development of future Mercedes-Benz vehicles, including the Concept CLA Class, which benefits from technology transfer from the VISION EQXX.

Furthermore, the expedition offered an opportunity to assess the performance of the solar roof, which houses 117 solar cells to power various ancillaries, reducing the strain on the high-voltage system and enhancing overall efficiency. During the drive to Dubai, the solar roof harvested 1.8 kWh of solar energy, extending the overall range by approximately 24 kms. Research into the potential series-production benefits of this technology is ongoing, with data collected on the influence of wind and sun on efficiency, including sun angle and direction, the release mentioned.

Collaborative efforts for maximum efficiency

Recognising the crucial role of the driver in vehicle efficiency, the driving team comprised experienced experts tasked with optimising energy consumption. Leveraging the car’s intelligent efficiency assistant, which provides real-time guidance based on various factors such as sun and wind conditions, the team maximised efficiency throughout the journey. 

For instance, during challenging crosswinds along the coast, the system assisted the drivers in adjusting their speed accordingly. Additionally, the team utilised solar information display (Tech View) to position the vehicle optimally for maximum solar yield during stops.

A global ambassador for electric mobility

Two years since its unveiling, the VISION EQXX continues to captivate audiences, having covered 23,340 kms (14,503 miles) under diverse real-life conditions. Amidst a landscape dominated by super sports cars and SUVs, its compact dimensions and sleek design garnered significant attention, symbolising a desirable blend of luxury and sustainability in electric mobility. Moreover, the expedition underscored Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to electrification, showcasing long-range electric efficiency in regions with limited charging infrastructure.

Expanding horizons

In addition to its European journeys, the VISION EQXX has also made appearances in the United States (US) and China, providing global audiences with firsthand experience of luxurious and sustainable electric efficiency. These expeditions serve as a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s vision for the future of mobility, combining cutting-edge technology with environmental consciousness on a global scale, it added.