Mercedes-Benz Unveils Advanced In-Drive Electric Drivetrain System

In a bid to further enhance the driving experience and efficiency of its electric vehicles, Mercedes-Benz has introduced the In-Drive electric drivetrain system. The new system seamlessly integrates the rear differential into the electric drive unit, eliminating the need for a mechanical pawl in the wheel hub.

Currently under testing, the production timeline for this system is yet to be confirmed.

Unlike traditional steel brake shoes, the In-Drive system relies on regenerative braking to bring vehicles to a stop. Engineer's claim that only about 2% of driving scenarios require manual application of the brakes, while a staggering 98% can be handled by the regenerative system, thereby extending the lifespan of these vehicles up to 15 years or 300,000 kilometers.

The compact and well-engineered design allows for cooling using an advanced water coolant system, effectively keeping the electronic components at optimal operating temperatures during intense usage cycles.

The key advantage of this innovative technology is its ability to significantly reduce unsprung mass, which enables much tighter handling capabilities, thereby enhancing overall performance of these vehicles but in the short term still poses some premium concerns