Mercedes-Benz’s AMG performance car division is engineering a new high-powered flagship SUV based on its own electric car platform. The new super-SUV, set to be unveiled in 2026, will compete with high-end rivals such as the BMW XM, Lotus Eletre, and Porsche’s upcoming K1. Unlike other Mercedes-Benz models, this SUV is being developed wholly by Mercedes-AMG and will have its own unique styling and interior layout. It will serve as a natural successor to the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63.
The styling of AMG’s first bespoke SUV will be previewed by an upcoming concept, similar in length to the Vision AMG concept. It will provide generous interior accommodation and versatility with a wheelbase of over 3000mm. The new SUV will feature an 800V electric architecture, patented axial flux electric motors, and a specially developed version of Mercedes-Benz’s MB.OS operating system known internally as AMG.OS.
This luxurious performance SUV will be the second production model based on Mercedes’ new AMG.EA platform, following the second-generation GT 4-Door Coupé. The new architecture is a technological trailblazer that will pioneer several new innovations. The AMG.EA drive concept is based on axial flux motor technology, offering an unparalleled mix of power density, size, and weight. It operates in conjunction with a new high-performance high-voltage battery.
The AMG.EA architecture has been designed to accommodate advanced electric motors from Yasa, a company purchased by Mercedes-AMG. Yasa’s disc-shaped motors offer significantly higher power and torque density than conventional synchronous electric motors. The new SUV will have various electric motor layouts, including rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations.
Yasa’s axial flux motor developed for AMG’s new electric models weighs just 24kg but can develop up to 480bhp and 590lb ft of torque. This suggests that the new AMG SUV could potentially offer well over 1000bhp. The suspension for the new model will draw on the technology used by the Active Ride Control system introduced on the second-generation Mercedes-AMG GT Coupé.
Inside, the super-SUV will feature a new-look interior architecture with a unique AMG dashboard display and operating system. Production will take place at Mercedes-Benz’s manufacturing plant in Sindelfingen, Germany, alongside the new GT 4-Door Coupé. Mercedes-Benz is already preparing to accommodate the production of two new electric AMG models on the same line. These AMG.EA-based models will serve as flagships for an expanding family of sporting EVs from AMG.
In 2025, AMG will launch a hot electric version of the third-generation CLA, based on the new MMA platform. Performance versions of the next-generation GLA and GLB are also planned.