CES 2024: Mercedes-Benz G-Class EV shows off 360-degree tank turns at Las Vegas Strip
Forget flying cars and holographic displays, it is the production-ready all-electric G-Class, aka EQG, that turned heads at CES 2024. In a Las Vegas Strip showcase, Mercedes-Benz unleashed the EQG's party trick: a 360-degree tank turn dubbed the "G-turn."
This impressive manoeuvre is possible by four independent electric motors at each wheel, allowing the EQG to rotate effortlessly on its own axis. Think of it as a mechanical ballerina, turning on a dime with one side's wheels spinning clockwise, whereas the other spin counter-clockwise. While not entirely new (an EQG prototype already displayed this feature on sand earlier), the potential G-turn's inclusion in the production-ready EQG promises exciting possibilities, especially while off-road.
The 360deg tank turn or G-turn might not be everyday necessity, but its potential uses range from getting out of stuck situations while exploring off-road trails to simply impressing your friends. Going by the internet's buzz, the latter scenario appears more likely. In fact, while the EQG is not the first vehicle to flaunt this impressive feat, the Rivian R1T prototype showcased a similar 360-degree tank turn a few years back.
Beyond the G-turn, the CES 2024 unveiling of the production-ready electric G-Wagon, albeit camouflaged, hints at a global debut, could be just around the corner. Not to forget, the ICE G-Class is very likely to be on sale alongside its all-electric counterpart. However, the German carmaker may phase out diesel and keep only petrol powertrains.
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