Ever since Rivian demonstrated an R1T prototype finishing a so-called tank flip, the place a automobile is ready to activate the spot—a full 360 levels—by spinning the left and proper wheels in reverse instructions, we have seen different automakers both launch or trace at comparable novelties.

Whereas Rivian ended up shelving plans for its tank flip, citing considerations the maneuver causes an excessive amount of harm to the bottom and will doubtlessly be abused, particularly on public trails, GMC with its Hummer EV affords what it calls the crab stroll. Right here a rear-wheel-steering system permits all 4 wheels to show in unison, enabling the automobile to maneuver diagonally aspect to aspect.

Mercedes-Benz has beforehand hinted that its upcoming electrical G-Class will characteristic a tank flip characteristic, and now Mercedes has launched a video that exhibits CEO Ola Källenius demonstrating the maneuver on some unfastened gravel (beginning at 8:53 mark). Mercedes calls the maneuver the G-Flip, and stated the characteristic will likely be obtainable on the electrical G-Class. The zero-emission SUV is due in 2024, seemingly as a 2025 mannequin within the U.S.

The electrical G-Class will even have a scaled-back tank flip characteristic that can be utilized to nudge the automobile right into a 90-degree flip, which might be useful on tight trails the place a big rock or tree makes it tough to finish a traditional flip. Though the G-Flip and nudge also needs to perform on arduous surfaces, that is more likely to trigger vital put on to the tires.

The funky maneuvers are made attainable by 4 independently managed electrical motors, a setup the electrical G-Class’ chief engineer, Fabian Schossau, stated was chosen resulting from its means to exactly ship torque wherever and at any time when it’s wanted, which is right for off-roading the place particular person wheels usually and rapidly lose traction.

Mercedes previewed the electrical G-Class in 2021 with the EQG idea. On the idea’s reveal, Mercedes stated the manufacturing model would match the off-road functionality of the gas-powered G-Class, together with the power to sort out 100% grades in appropriate terrain.

Mercedes has since revealed that the electrical G-Class will characteristic in some unspecified time in the future a sophisticated silicon-anode battery chemistry to pack in additional vary with out packaging sacrifices. It will likely be equipped by Mercedes-backed Sila which plans to start out manufacturing cells in Washington State mid-decade for a deliberate “range-extended” model of the electrical G-Class. Mercedes additionally plans to make use of this chemistry in different future fashions.

Prototypes for the electrical G-Class have been noticed testing. Mercedes can also be identified to be engaged on a child brother to the G-Class, which is due within the second half of the last decade and can come solely as an EV.