Ever since Rivian demonstrated an R1T prototype completing a so-called tank turn, where a vehicle is able to turn a spot – a full 360 degrees – turning the left and right wheels in reverse, made possible by the R1T’s four electric motors, we have seen other automakers. Indication of launch or similar innovation.
While the R1T doesn’t yet offer the Tank Turn feature, it does offer a crab walk with GMC’s Hummer EV. Here an all-wheel-steering system enables all four wheels to rotate together, allowing the vehicle to move diagonally to the side.
Mercedes-Benz has now released a video to show off a prototype tank of its EQG. Mercedes calls it the G-Turn, and says the feature will be available in production EQG. The electric G-Class is expected to arrive in 2024, although it’s not clear if the G-Turn will be available at launch.
Mercedes-Benz EQG concept
The feature is made possible by four independently controlled electric motors, a setup from Mercedes that previewed an EQG concept unveiled last year. You will notice that Mercedes has shown the feature in loose soil. We can imagine that this is proving to be effective on the Tight Trail. Although it should work on a hard surface, it will cause significant wear of the tire.
Disclosing the EQG concept, Mercedes said that the planned production version will match the off-road capabilities of the gas-powered G-Class, which has the ability to handle 100% grade in suitable terrain. The concept included a ladder frame and a 2-speed gearbox to reduce off-road gear like the gas-powered model.
We’ve learned since then that EQG will feature an advanced silicon-anode battery chemistry to pack more range without sacrificing packaging. It will be supplied by Mercedes-backed Sila, which plans to start cell production in the state of Washington for the planned “range-extended” version of the mid-decade EQG. Mercedes plans to use the chemical in other future models.