Convinced there’s a future for hydrogen as a main power source for the cars of tomorrow, Mercedes-Benz has skipped ahead two generations to present us with the magnificent F125! concept.
It’s a logical evolution of the fuel cell propulsion system that also uses plug-in technology, already seen in models like the electric Focus and Tesla Roadster, to name a few.
Thanks to four electric engines located near the wheels, the car benefits from AWD and turns in exceptional performance. Powered by hydrogen and lithium-sulphur batteries, they continually generate 231 hp, offer a maximum output of 313 hp and allow for a 1,000-km operating range.
This technology won’t be cropping up in Mercedes-Benz products any time soon, however, as its real potential is still being evaluated and is hard to establish at the moment. The automaker still believes that the innovation will double the performance capabilities of the traditional lithium-ion mix.
The F125! can sprint from 0 to 100 clicks in 4.9 seconds, with top speeds of 220 km/h while consuming 0.79 kg of hydrogen per 100 km (or the equivalent of 2.7 litres of diesel).
The body is a mix of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP), aluminum and high-strength steel, significantly reducing the weight of the vehicle, while greatly improving safety in case of impact.
Another non-negligible feature is that the hydrogen tank is built into the floor, leaving more room for four occupants to lounge about in perfect comfort.
Inside, a control and display system based on touch, voice and gestures is designed as the driver’s “companion”, effortlessly interfacing with the audio and infotainment system. The gullwing doors, for instance, can be open and closed with a simple hand gesture.
It’s a logical evolution of the fuel cell propulsion system that also uses plug-in technology, already seen in models like the electric Focus and Tesla Roadster, to name a few.
Thanks to four electric engines located near the wheels, the car benefits from AWD and turns in exceptional performance. Powered by hydrogen and lithium-sulphur batteries, they continually generate 231 hp, offer a maximum output of 313 hp and allow for a 1,000-km operating range.
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| Photo: Mercedes-Benz |
This technology won’t be cropping up in Mercedes-Benz products any time soon, however, as its real potential is still being evaluated and is hard to establish at the moment. The automaker still believes that the innovation will double the performance capabilities of the traditional lithium-ion mix.
The F125! can sprint from 0 to 100 clicks in 4.9 seconds, with top speeds of 220 km/h while consuming 0.79 kg of hydrogen per 100 km (or the equivalent of 2.7 litres of diesel).
The body is a mix of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP), aluminum and high-strength steel, significantly reducing the weight of the vehicle, while greatly improving safety in case of impact.
Another non-negligible feature is that the hydrogen tank is built into the floor, leaving more room for four occupants to lounge about in perfect comfort.
Inside, a control and display system based on touch, voice and gestures is designed as the driver’s “companion”, effortlessly interfacing with the audio and infotainment system. The gullwing doors, for instance, can be open and closed with a simple hand gesture.
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