Mercedes-Benz Ener-G-Force Concept Uses Hydrogen Fuel Cell

Mercedes-Benz's most potent off-road force is the G-Class, a full-size SUV that is based on a decades-old design. At this year's Los Angeles Auto Show Design Challenge, Mercedes-Benz will be presenting its take on the vehicle that could replace the G-Class in the distant future: the Ener-G-Force concept.

The Mercedes-Benz Ener-G-Force concept features a radical update of the squared-off looks that are offered by the G-Class. More than that, however, the concept SUV provides a sci-fi hydrogen fuel cell that generates electricity by breaking down recycled water into its component oxygen and hydrogen. The water is stored in roof tanks, and the vehicle is powered by four electric motors - one at each wheel.

The impetus to design such a far-out off-roader came from the Design Challenge's stated goal of having car companies build 'patrol vehicles' that would be able to operate in the year 2025, taking into account social and environmental conditions. The Ener-G-Force concept (which will appear in full-scale model form at next week's L.A. Auto Show) would seem to indicate that Mercedes-Benz sees the future from a positive perspective in terms of environmentally-friendly technological advancement, and from a negative one when looking at road conditions.