Mercedes-Benz has marked the opening of its Beijing-based R&D centre with the unveiling of the Vision Code-G concept, a possible blueprint for the smallest member of the firm’s G SUV stable.
Wearing the SUC (Sports Utility Coupé) moniker, the Mercedes Vision Code-G’s 4,1-metre footprint places it in a similar bracket to the Nissan Juke and Audi’s Q1 SUV range-starter.
The Mercedes Vision Code-G concept is powered by an all-wheel drive hybrid powertrain comprising a petrol engine driving the front wheels and an electric motor powering the rear.
In keeping with the Code-G’s eco-friendly credentials, the concept features an onboard hydrogen fuel cell from which clean oxygen can be gleaned and filtered into the cabin to guard its occupants from China’s troublesome smog.
Peel away such concept goodies as the light-up grille, 21-inch carbon fibre-spoked alloy wheels, floating roof bereft of B-pillar (not to mention the brace of scooters in its rear) and there are potentially the makings of a production, although Mercedes has yet to confirm this.
