14 DAY TRIAL // Frankfurt is the place to be these days for the most environmentally-conscious consumers as automakers from around the world are gathered there, offering their vision on the future of green mobility.
So is the case with Daimler and its Mercedes-Benz F125 research vehicle, a hydrogen-powered concept designed to embody emission-free driving in the luxury segment.
With a range of up to 1,000 km (621 miles), of which up to 50 km can be under battery-electric power alone, and first-class comfort features, the F125 comes bearing a modular e4MATIC system that generates a continuous output of 231 hp from the electric motors, or a peak output of 313 hp.
This is enough for a 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) time of 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 220 km/h (137 mph). The NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) fuel consumption is only 0.79 kilograms of hydrogen per 100 kilometres (= 2.7 litres diesel equivalent).
Now that we’ve got the performance aspects covered, let’s see what the Mercedes F125 brings in terms of styling and creature comforts. The idea of benefitting from completely emission-free mobility while using jaw-dropping gullwing doors to access the interior might actually change the way we see green commuting.
Other highlights of the F125 include the ‘@yourCOMAND’ infotainment system and innovative assistance systems for lasting driver stress relief. The research vehicle is also a control and display concept based on touch, speech and hand-gestures.
Last but not least, the revolutionary structural integrated hydrogen composite storage unit, which is still the object of basic research. The German specialists claim they may develop this technology to series production level from 2025.
"The structural integrated hydrogen composite unit of the F 125! represents a real technological revolution, as it allows the hydrogen tank to be fully integrated into the bodyshell structure for the first time. In the future, vehicles with emission-free fuel cell drive systems could achieve the operating ranges of current diesel models with no loss of interior space," stated Daimler’s Prof. Dr. Thomas Weber.
The guys at autoevolution witnessed the unveiling. Check out the photos:
