Mercedes to implement silicon-anode battery tech

Mercedes-Benz is introducing ‘game-changing’ silicon-anode battery technology for its electric G-Class. This new chemistry can apparently increase the energy density of a lithium-ion battery by up to 40 per cent. It is due to go into production within two years. The tech has been co-developed by Mercedes and Sila Nanotechnologies.

The G580 EQ recently debuted at the Beijing Motor Show. It packs a 116kWh battery with lithium NMC cells, and graphite anodes. Range for the quad-motor EV is a claimed 470km. 

However, even before first deliveries have begun, the new battery technology could take capacity to 162kWh and range out to almost 650km. 

Markus Schäfer, Mercedes’ chief technology officer said that this is potentially ‘a game changer’ for the firm. It allows developers to think in new directions for future EVs, he added.

Mercedes invested in Sila Nanotechnologies five years ago. Since then, the pair have worked to bring silicon-anode battery technology to production.

The new battery is likely to find a home in the EQE and EQS saloons and SUVs, as well as the G580 EQ. The latter is essentially the same as the updated G450d, with a different grille and EQ badges. A new A-pillar design and spoiler lip on the front of the roof help lower Cd from 0.48 to 0.44.

The uncompromised off-road ability remains thanks to four electric motors, each good for 108kW (432kW total), and 1166Nm of torque. Each motor is driven by a two-speed gearbox. Evidently it will go places where the conventional G-Class cannot. 

The G580 has the same front suspension, and a new rigid axle at the rear with the electric drive unit. Virtual mechanical diff locks optimise torque vectoring.

Full bore, it will get to 100km/h in under five sec, and tops out at 180km/h. But off road is where it shines evidently, with the ability to traverse side slopes of up to 35 degrees. Wading depth is 850mm because the electric powertrain elements are sealed. The height of the charge port is the limiting factor. Special features include an off-road crawler function and G-Steering where it can pivot around an individual wheel for a tighter turning circle.

The G580 uses a modified version of the G-Class’s ladder frame chassis. Its battery pack mounts directly into the frame and serves as a structural part of the vehicle, so separate cross braces aren’t needed. A protective underguard acts as a skidplate when driving off-road. At 3085kg it is 530kg heavier than the G450d.

The use of the G580 title is to stress that it is part of the main G-Class range. This will become more general in future, electric vehicles taking classic model names, with the EQ Technology suffix.