2015 Mercedes-Benz G-Code Concept

With the occasion of opening a new Research&Development center in China, Mercedes-Benz unveiled a new Concept in Beijing, named G-Code, a concept smaller than the GLA with just 317 mm but also slightly taller and wider, resulting in a shape that has more than a passing resemblance to the Nissan Juke. If built, it would compete against the MINI Cooper Countryman and Audi Upcoming Q1 in the premium subcompact crossover segment.

But, the main purpose of this concept may be to show off the new technologies that Mercedes-Benz is preparing for the future models.

The G-Class Concept features a “state-of-the-art turbocharged combustion engine that runs on hydrogen” at the front, connected to a dual-clutch transmission, and an electric motor that drives the rear axle.

The batteries can be charged:

– from a conventional socket
– from a “multi-voltaic” paint that turns the entire exterior into a solar panel, converting sunlight into electricity,
– this paint is supposed to also harvest electrostatic energy from wind rushing across its surface,
– suspension system that collects energy from the movement of its dampers,
– a more conventional regenerative braking system.

Getting to the cabin of the G-Code is via coach-style doors, and once inside you’ll notice a simple and uncluttered design plus a 2+2 seating arrangement. Information is relayed via a central screen mounted on the dash and round air vents pump oxygen into the cabin generated via hydrogen synthesis. And as a special touch, the concept comes with two electric scooters mounted in the rear. These also get charged by the vehicle’s advanced energy recovery systems.

More details should be revealed when the G-Code makes its debut at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show later this month.

Note, Mercedes is preparing another futuristic concept for the 2015 Consumer Electronics Show and this one is expected to feature some pretty advanced autonomous driving tech.