Mercedes-Benz Ener-G-Force Concept at the 2012 L.A. Auto Show
- Looks like: What the city of Malibu will use to hunt zombies in the year 2025
- Defining characteristics: G-Class gets curves and a police light bar
- Ridiculous features: A fuel-cell powertrain and color-changing side skirts that indicate charge status
- Chances of being mass-produced: Zilch
Mercedes is putting a futuristic spin on its G-Class glam wagon. The Ener-G-Force fuel-cell concept is the automaker’s take on the future of law enforcement vehicles.
The design study keeps the G-Class wagon’s boxy shape, but it wears a higher shoulder line, smaller windows and rooftop-integrated emergency lights. The concept also rides on 20-inch wheels and—just in case its G heritage wasn’t evident—features LED headlamps that form the letter G.
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Other from-the-future-technology includes a pull-out toolbox mounted on the back of the SUV and a 360-degree topography scanner mounted on the roof. Based on the results, it adjusts the suspension depending on the surface.
The Ener-G-Force’s powertrain is just as outlandish. Mercedes says it stores water in tanks on the roof and transfers it to a “hydro-tech converter, where natural and renewable resources are converted into hydrogen for operating the fuel cells.” The automaker also claims a 500-mile range for the wagon. The energy packs are housed in the concept’s side skirts and change color to indicate their charge status.
Mercedes-Benz has confirmed the concept is only a design challenge, which is a good thing. Only incredibly well-funded police departments would be able to afford one: The 2013 G-Class starts at $113,905, including a $905 destination charge.
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