Mercedes-Benz embarked on an exploration of a range-extender powertrain for its electric vehicles (EVs) but has purportedly terminated the endeavor, deeming it a mere "transitional technology."
Unnamed sources familiar with the brand's development initiatives suggest that Mercedes had trialed a model based on the EQS, featuring a turbocharged 1.0-liter two-cylinder engine positioned at the front, functioning as a generator. According to the same sources, this engine incorporates a front-mounted exhaust system, delivering supplementary power to the rear-mounted electric motor and supplying energy to the lithium-ion battery pack.
While specifics regarding the prototype's fuel tank capacity remain undisclosed, it is speculated to have extended the car's range beyond the 487 miles (784 km) offered by the rear-wheel drive Mercedes EQS 450+.
Reportedly, the 1.0-liter two-cylinder engine constitutes half the size of the 2.0-liter turbo unit utilized in various Mercedes models. The incorporation of this compact range extender enabled the utilization of a battery pack approximately 50% smaller compared to the all-electric EQS. This reduction in size contributes to mitigating weight, a critical factor for EVs equipped with substantial battery packs aimed at achieving maximum range on a single charge.
A source cited by Autocar stated, "We have created [range-extender] prototypes based on existing models, both for packaging and road testing." However, the conclusion was reached that the range-extender drivetrain represents a transitional technology offering short-term benefits in terms of sales, yet entailing comparatively high production costs.
The duration of Mercedes-Benz's involvement in the range-extender program and the extent of expenditure incurred on the project remain unspecified.