Every automaker has the same challenge: how do we build a vehicle that delivers performance while doing so efficiently? If you’re Mercedes-Benz, you do so by creating a concept vehicle so advanced, even the name is a puzzle.
Mercedes-Benz recently unveiled the Vision G-Code, a concept Sport Utility Coupe that uses so many different fuel sources, it reminds us of a wind sock, looking to see how the market will blow. It’s also worth noting that as an SUC, the G-Code underscores how the smaller, crossover-sized SUVs will dominate the market of the future.
In any case, here are all the different ways the Vision C-Code generates power:
- Electric motor
- Regenerative braking
- Plug-in electrical outlet charging
- Turbocharged hydrogen combustion engine
- Suspension energy-capture
- Solar-cell paint exterior
- Electrostatic wind paint exterior
It’s these last four sources that are most audacious. Wind power? Solar cell paint? Suspension energy? Hydrogen? Hydrogen is a challenging enough power source on its own. Many automakers showed off their latest hydrogen fuel cell vehicles at the Los Angeles Auto show last month, proudly detailing how far they’ve come. Mercedes-Benz is already throwing a turbocharger on its hydrogen engine.
Suspension capture means that every jolt, vibration, and pothole can actually be put to use instead of merely jostling passengers in their seats. All of those bumps are technically energy, so they’re a continuous power supply, as long as you’re driving.
Solar cells are old news. Solar cell paint, however, is new. That means the silver finish of the Vision G-Code contains a layer of solar ray-catching cells that convert sunlight into electric charge. Ditto for the wind. The multi-voltaic exterior finish converts both sun rays and the wind disturbance that comes from regular driving into energy. It doesn’t even have to be a sunny or windy day, though that would certainly help.
The Vision G-Code reminds us that Mercedes-Benz is looking far into the future. If you’re from Durham and are interested in Mercedes-Benz, check us out; we’d love to show you around.