FX.co ★ Future cars: most unusual concepts at 2021 Munich Show

Mercedes-Maybach EQS

With the Concept EQS, Mercedes-Maybach provided a splendid preview of the first fully electric series-production model. The SUV concept vehicle is based on luxury class vehicles like Mercedes-Benz and Maybach. The concept car inherited a recognizable grille on the front panel, rich chrome trim, original 24-inch wheels, as well as many interior design solutions. This model is equipped with an MEA (modular electric architecture) platform created specifically for electric cars. The company has not reported any additional technical features yet.

Mercedes-Benz EQG

Over its more than 40-year history, Geländewagen has gone through many alterations. At the show, Mercedes-Benz revealed the EQG Concept, a fully electric SUV based on its G-Class luxury off-roader. Instead of an internal combustion engine, four electric motors would be mounted inboard, close to each wheel. Mercedes plans to establish mass production of such cars. The prototype of Geländewagen on alternative fuel was presented at the Munich Motor Show. The model is expected to appear in the market no earlier than 2023. The electric version of the Mercedes-Benz G-class will retain all the traditional features of the classic SUV.

BMW i Vision Circular

The BMW concept car attracted great attention in Munich. The i Vision Circular model is projected to appear by 2040. This is a perfect example of how an eco-friendly car should look like. It is equipped with an electric motor. The vision vehicle has been created in line with the principles of the circular economy and the use of secondary materials, e.g. secondary aluminum and secondary steel. They can be obtained by recycling waste material and then reused. Hence, the BMW Group aims to achieve climate neutrality by reducing CO2 emissions throughout a vehicle’s entire life cycle. To make it even more eco-friendly, the company also refused to paint cars. Another highlight of this model is its special sound. Oscar and Grammy winner Hans Zimmer came up with an exclusive sound design for the BMW i Vision. "The idea was to combine different samples to keep injecting new life into the sounds inside the vehicle, in the same way its materials get a new lease of life," Hans Zimmer said.

Audi Grandsphere

The new electric car from Audi was also made according to the principles of environmental friendliness. This can be clearly seen in the interior design. Instead of leather, it is decorated with synthetic fabrics and recycled materials. The Audi Grandsphere concept implies a level 4 autopilot. It means that the car can be controlled autonomously but only under certain conditions. If the driver does not want to drive the car, the steering wheel and pedals retract. Therefore, the driver becomes a passenger who can relax in a comfortable cabin. The electric vehicle recognizes voice and gesture commands. It also adjusts to the individual needs of the owner. It remembers which menu items the driver uses more often and offers options.

Volkswagen ID. Life

The new electric car from Volkswagen is designed for city trips. The ID. Life model is maneuverable and compact. At the same time, the manufacturer says that this car is a family model for the small car segment. Inside the cabin, there is a folding screen that will help pass the time in traffic jams. The owner can watch a movie or even play a video game. The interior of the car is decorated without sophisticated details. There is no display in the car. The driver can use a small menu on the steering wheel or a smartphone that integrates with the navigation system. ID. Life is expected to appear in the market by 2025.

Smart Concept #1

The Smart brand also presented a prototype of a city car in Munich. It was the concept of its first crossover. The Concept #1 model is a collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and Geely. Mercedes-Benz is responsible for the design, whereas Geely for the technical equipment. The car has a transparent roof and swing doors. It runs on electric traction. The newly developed app for smartphones will also add the function of a digital key. Besides, a built-in virtual assistant helps the driver to control the electric car. Concept #1 is likely to enter the assembly line in 2023. This will be the biggest Smart in history.

Porsche Mission R

The first racing car from Porsche completes our list. When working on the Mission R model, the manufacturer tried to make it eco-friendlier by using sustainable materials, such as natural fibre-reinforced plastics. The car is also equipped with an electric motor that releases zero emissions. However, the main advantage of this car is that its technical characteristics are on par with cars running on an internal combustion engine. With its 1088hp electric motors, the car will accelerate from 0-100 km/h in less than 2.5 seconds. Its top speed is 300 km/h.