Volkswagen has opened pre-sales for the new Volkswagen ID. Cross with a 37 kWh battery, introducing a more affordable version of its all-electric compact SUV. Starting at €27,995 in Germany, the entry-level ID. Cross Trend is designed for urban drivers and commuters looking for an electric vehicle that combines everyday practicality, competitive running costs and modern technology.
The new battery option expands the ID. Cross range, which initially launched with a larger 52 kWh battery following the model’s world premiere in mid-July. The smaller battery is available with two electric motor outputs, delivering 85 kW (116 PS) or 99 kW (135 PS), and can be paired with the Trend, Life and Style trim levels.
With a claimed WLTP driving range of up to 324 kilometres, a maximum speed of 160 km/h and standard DC rapid charging, the Volkswagen ID. Cross 37 kWh aims to make electric SUV ownership more accessible without abandoning the comfort, space and equipment expected from a modern Volkswagen.
Volkswagen ID. Cross 37 kWh: Key Specifications
The new entry-level configuration focuses on affordability and efficiency rather than maximum driving range or outright performance.
Key specifications for the German market include:
Starting price: €27,995 for the ID. Cross Trend with the 85 kW motor.
Battery capacity: 37 kWh.
Electric motor options: 85 kW (116 PS) and 99 kW (135 PS).
Maximum WLTP range: Up to 324 kilometres.
DC fast charging: 10–80 per cent in approximately 23 minutes.
Maximum speed: 160 km/h.
Available trim levels: Trend, Life and Style.
Larger battery option: 52 kWh, already introduced in the model range.
All prices and specifications quoted here relate to the German market. Equipment, prices and availability may differ in other countries.
A More Affordable Electric SUV for Everyday Driving
The Volkswagen ID. Cross with a 37 kWh battery is aimed at customers whose daily journeys rarely require the additional range provided by a larger battery pack.
For drivers who primarily travel around town, commute to work or make regular trips between nearby communities, the smaller battery could offer a more economical way to switch to electric mobility.
A smaller battery generally requires fewer materials and can reduce vehicle cost and weight, although the actual differences depend on the final vehicle configuration. For buyers who can charge at home or at work, the ID. Cross could provide a practical alternative to a petrol-powered compact SUV.
Volkswagen’s strategy also reflects a broader shift in the electric vehicle market. Rather than focusing exclusively on ever-larger batteries and longer driving ranges, manufacturers are increasingly introducing more affordable configurations designed around the needs of everyday motorists.
The ID. Cross 37 kWh is intended to serve precisely this market: customers who want an electric SUV for normal daily use without paying for battery capacity they may rarely need.
Up to 324 Kilometres of WLTP Range
The 37 kWh battery delivers a claimed driving range of up to 324 kilometres on the WLTP test cycle.
That figure should be sufficient for many urban and suburban driving routines, particularly when the vehicle can be charged overnight. It also provides some flexibility for longer journeys, although motorway driving, cold weather, heating or air-conditioning use and driving style can reduce the distance available between charging stops.
The ID. Cross is not restricted to low-speed urban environments, either. With a maximum speed of 160 km/h, Volkswagen says the electric SUV is also suitable for motorway driving.
Nevertheless, buyers who regularly undertake long-distance motorway journeys may prefer the 52 kWh version, particularly if charging opportunities along their routes are limited.
For commuters and households with predictable daily driving patterns, the smaller battery could represent a sensible balance between purchase price, usability and charging requirements.
DC Fast Charging Comes as Standard
One of the most important features of the new Volkswagen ID. Cross 37 kWh is its standard DC rapid-charging capability.
Volkswagen quotes a charging time of approximately 23 minutes to increase the battery’s state of charge from 10 to 80 per cent.
That makes it possible to add a meaningful amount of energy during a short stop, helping the vehicle remain practical beyond daily commuting.
Actual charging times will depend on the available charging station, battery temperature, initial state of charge and other operating conditions. The quoted figure should therefore be treated as a manufacturer specification rather than a guarantee for every charging session.
For owners with access to home charging, the ability to recharge overnight may be even more important than maximum DC charging speed. Regular charging at home can simplify daily use and reduce the need to visit public charging stations.
The combination of a relatively small battery and rapid charging could make the ID. Cross particularly attractive to drivers who can plan their journeys around predictable daily distances.
Two Electric Motor Options: 116 PS or 135 PS
Volkswagen offers the 37 kWh battery with two electric motor outputs, giving customers a choice between affordability and additional power.
The entry-level 85 kW (116 PS) version is available in the Trend trim, with prices starting at €27,995 in Germany. The 99 kW (135 PS) motor provides a more powerful alternative for customers who want additional performance.
Volkswagen has not provided acceleration figures or complete pricing for every battery, motor and equipment combination in the supplied announcement.
Both configurations are intended to deliver the smooth and immediate response associated with electric powertrains. This characteristic can be especially useful in urban traffic, where frequent acceleration and deceleration are part of everyday driving.
The availability of two motor outputs also allows buyers to select a configuration that better matches their budget and driving requirements.
Volkswagen ID. Cross Trend, Life and Style: What Equipment Is Available?
The new 37 kWh battery can be ordered with three equipment lines: Trend, Life and Style.
Even the entry-level Trend specification includes a useful range of standard features, helping Volkswagen position the ID. Cross as an affordable electric SUV without stripping away essential convenience technology.
ID. Cross Trend
The Trend is the entry point into the range, with the 85 kW motor version starting at €27,995.
Standard equipment includes Park Distance Control at the front and rear, helping drivers manoeuvre in tight parking spaces, as well as App Connect smartphone integration.
For buyers who prioritise value and straightforward everyday usability, the Trend could be the most appealing configuration.
ID. Cross Life
The Life specification adds further comfort and technology features, making it a potential middle ground for buyers who want more equipment without moving to the highest trim level.
Depending on the selected configuration, the ID. Cross range offers access to technologies designed to simplify driving and improve the passenger experience.
ID. Cross Style
The Style sits at the more equipment-focused end of the range, with access to additional convenience and premium features.
Depending on trim and configuration, available options include a panoramic sunroof, a Harman Kardon sound system and electrically adjustable 12-way seats with a massage function.
These features bring equipment typically associated with more expensive vehicle classes into Volkswagen’s compact electric SUV segment.
Connected Travel Assist and Advanced Driver Assistance
The Volkswagen ID. Cross is designed to offer more than basic electric transportation.
One of the technologies available, depending on equipment specification, is Connected Travel Assist. The system can use networked data to support predictive assisted driving, helping the vehicle respond more intelligently to road conditions.
As with other driver-assistance technologies, its capabilities and operating limits depend on the system configuration, road conditions and applicable regulations. The driver remains responsible for supervising the vehicle and maintaining control.
The availability of such technology in a more affordable electric SUV demonstrates how connected driving assistance is becoming increasingly important beyond premium vehicle segments.
For buyers who spend considerable time commuting, driver-assistance features can contribute to a more convenient driving experience, although they do not replace attentive driving.
Interior Design: Space, Comfort and Intuitive Technology
Volkswagen says the fundamental concept of the ID. Cross remains unchanged regardless of battery size.
The electric SUV combines a distinctive exterior design with a cabin intended to feel spacious, comfortable and easy to use. Large displays, intuitive controls and a high-quality interior environment are central to its appeal.
The range of equipment options allows customers to tailor the vehicle to their preferences, from a straightforward commuter vehicle to a more luxurious compact SUV.
Available features such as the panoramic sunroof, massage-function seats and premium Harman Kardon audio system can enhance comfort on longer journeys.
This emphasis on interior quality and usability is important for a vehicle positioned as an everyday family and commuting option. Buyers increasingly expect affordable electric cars to offer the same digital convenience and cabin comfort as their petrol-powered counterparts.
Volkswagen ID. Cross 37 kWh vs 52 kWh: Which Battery Should You Choose?
The introduction of the 37 kWh battery gives customers a more affordable alternative to the 52 kWh version already available in the ID. Cross range.
The choice largely depends on how far the vehicle will be driven each day and how convenient charging will be.
The 37 kWh battery is likely to make the most sense for urban drivers, commuters with predictable routines and households with access to home charging. Its claimed range of up to 324 kilometres should cover many regular journeys, while the lower entry price could reduce the initial cost of ownership.
The 52 kWh battery is worth considering for drivers who frequently travel longer distances, undertake regular motorway journeys or want a larger range buffer between charging stops. The actual range and charging differences between the versions will depend on their final specifications.
A smaller battery does not automatically make a vehicle cheaper to own in every situation. Buyers should also consider electricity prices, insurance, annual mileage, charging access, vehicle equipment and the purchase-price difference between battery variants.
For many city-based motorists, however, paying for a larger battery may be unnecessary if most journeys are short and charging is readily available.
Volkswagen’s Strategy: Making Electric Mobility More Accessible
The ID. Cross 37 kWh arrives as Volkswagen continues to expand its electric vehicle offering across different price points.
For the electric vehicle market to reach a broader audience, manufacturers need to address not only driving range and performance but also the initial purchase price. A lower entry point can make a meaningful difference for private buyers comparing an electric SUV with a conventional petrol-powered model.
The new ID. Cross configuration takes a practical approach by combining a smaller battery, two motor options and three equipment lines. Instead of requiring customers to pay for a single high-specification configuration, Volkswagen gives buyers more flexibility in how they balance cost, power and equipment.
The €27,995 starting price in Germany positions the ID. Cross as a model to watch among buyers considering an affordable electric SUV.
Its success will depend on the final pricing of the wider range, real-world efficiency, charging performance and how it compares with competing electric crossovers.
Mercedes-AMG is entering a new era with the all-new Mercedes-AMG GT SUV, an electric performance SUV developed entirely in-house from the ground up for the first time in the brand’s 59-year history. Built on the advanced AMG.EA high-performance architecture, the new model combines the practicality and space of a full-size SUV with the acceleration, handling and emotional appeal traditionally associated with AMG sports cars.
With up to 860 kW (1,169 hp), a claimed 0–100 km/h acceleration time of just 2.5 seconds and DC fast-charging capability of up to 710 kW, the flagship Mercedes-AMG GT 63 SUV aims to redefine expectations for high-performance electric SUVs. A maximum WLTP range of up to 700 kilometres, sophisticated active suspension technology and an interior packed with digital features are designed to make the new AMG more than just a straight-line acceleration specialist.
The Mercedes-AMG GT SUV will be offered in three versions: the GT 53, GT 55 and GT 63. The entry-level GT 53 is scheduled to open for orders on 20 October 2026, with prices starting at €113,050. The more powerful GT 55 and GT 63 variants are expected to follow in spring 2027.
Mercedes-AMG GT SUV: A New Chapter for Electric Performance
The new Mercedes-AMG GT SUV represents a significant milestone for the Affalterbach-based performance division. Rather than adapting an existing Mercedes-Benz SUV, AMG has developed the vehicle around its dedicated AMG.EA platform, an architecture engineered specifically for high-performance electric vehicles.
The result is a full-size SUV with a distinctly sporting character. Its low roofline, wide track, muscular bodywork and integrated driving position give it a silhouette closer to a high-performance GT car than a conventional family SUV. At the same time, Mercedes-AMG promises generous passenger space, long-distance comfort and the versatility expected from the segment.
Jörg Burzer, Chief Technology Officer and a member of the Mercedes-Benz Group AG Board of Management, describes the vehicle as a demonstration of how electric performance can deliver sustained power, range and charging speed without the compromises traditionally associated with battery-powered performance cars.
Stefan Weckbach, Chairman of the Management Board of Mercedes-AMG, sums up the concept with a simple philosophy: “SUV by shape. GT by nature.”
That approach places the new Mercedes-AMG GT SUV in an increasingly competitive segment where manufacturers are attempting to combine supercar-level acceleration with everyday usability.
Three Models, Up to 1,169 Horsepower
Mercedes-AMG will launch the GT SUV with three powertrain configurations, offering a choice between two synchronous electric motors and a more sophisticated three-motor arrangement featuring axial flux technology.
The range-topping GT 63 SUV produces up to 860 kW (1,169 hp), while the GT 55 SUV delivers up to 600 kW (816 hp). Both use three electric motors, with two motors positioned at the rear and another at the front.
The entry-level GT 53 SUV takes a different approach, employing two synchronous motors, one on each axle, for a combined output of 400 kW (544 hp).
The key specifications announced by Mercedes-AMG are as follows:
Maximum claimed acceleration: 0–100 km/h in 2.5 seconds for the GT 63 SUV.
Maximum claimed acceleration: 0–200 km/h in 6.8 seconds for the GT 63 SUV.
Maximum speed: 270 km/h with the Driver’s Package.
Maximum claimed WLTP range: up to 700 kilometres, depending on configuration.
Maximum DC charging power: up to 710 kW, depending on battery version.
These figures place the GT 63 SUV firmly in the territory of some of the world’s quickest production performance vehicles, while the GT 53 provides a more accessible entry point into the electric AMG family.
Axial Flux Motors: The Technology Behind the GT 63
The defining engineering feature of the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 SUV is its three-motor electric drivetrain. Unlike conventional radial flux electric motors, axial flux motors use a different magnetic arrangement that can offer high torque and power density within a compact package.
In the GT 63 and GT 55, the electric motors are integrated into high-performance electric drive units, known as HP.EDUs, on the front and rear axles.
The rear drive unit incorporates two axial flux motors, each paired with a compact input planetary gearbox. The motors and gearboxes use oil cooling, while water-cooled silicon carbide inverters manage the high electrical loads.
The front axle features a single axial flux motor, a gearbox and an integrated parking lock. However, this motor does not need to operate continuously. A Disconnect Unit can disengage it when additional front-axle power is unnecessary, reducing drivetrain drag and improving efficiency.
When the driver demands more acceleration or when traction conditions require additional grip, the front motor reconnects rapidly. It also contributes during regenerative braking.
This arrangement allows AMG to combine the benefits of a high-performance all-wheel-drive system with an efficiency-focused operating strategy.
The GT 53 uses two synchronous motors instead. Its front motor can also be disconnected under light loads, while a two-speed transmission on the rear axle balances acceleration with efficiency at higher speeds. A short first gear supports strong launches and urban driving, while the second gear is optimised for motorway cruising.
AMG High Performance Battery: Up to 700 km of Range
High output is only part of the equation for an electric performance SUV. Delivering that power repeatedly without excessive thermal limitations is equally important, particularly during sustained high-speed driving or track use.
Mercedes-AMG addresses this challenge with its AMG High Performance Electric Battery, featuring 800-volt technology and directly cooled cylindrical battery cells.
Two battery configurations are planned, with usable capacities of 106 kWh and 128 kWh. The larger battery uses 22 modules, while the smaller configuration uses 18 modules.
According to Mercedes-AMG, the 128 kWh battery enables a maximum WLTP driving range of up to 700 kilometres. Actual range will depend on the selected model, equipment, driving conditions, temperature and driving style.
The cylindrical cells measure 105 mm in height and 26 mm in diameter. Their dimensions help reduce the distance heat must travel from the cell core to the outer surface, improving thermal management. The aluminium cell housings also provide a combination of low weight and efficient electrical and thermal conductivity.
A full-tab cell design reduces internal electrical resistance, while specialised NCMA cathode and silicon-containing anode chemistry is intended to provide high energy density, rapid charging and long service life.
The most distinctive feature is the cooling system. Rather than relying solely on indirect cooling through conventional battery structures, a specialised electrically non-conductive oil flows directly around each cylindrical cell.
This arrangement is designed to maintain a consistent temperature across the battery pack, supporting high power delivery during acceleration and repeated performance driving.
An integrated thermal-management system coordinates cooling for the battery, electric drive units and other high-voltage components. By directing cooling capacity where it is needed most, the system aims to balance charging speed, performance and efficiency.
710 kW Charging: A Major Step for Electric SUVs
Charging speed is one of the most ambitious aspects of the new Mercedes-AMG GT SUV.
With the 106 kWh battery, the vehicle supports DC charging at up to 600 kW. Mercedes-AMG says this configuration can add up to 380 kilometres of WLTP range in approximately 10 minutes under suitable conditions.
The larger 128 kWh battery raises the maximum charging power to 710 kW, with the manufacturer claiming that up to 450 kilometres of WLTP range can be added in 10 minutes.
For the larger battery, a 10–80 per cent charging session is quoted at as little as 12 minutes. At a 400 kW charging station, the corresponding charging times are approximately 14 minutes for the 106 kWh battery and 16 minutes for the 128 kWh version.
These figures are manufacturer claims based on specified charging conditions. Actual charging performance will depend on charger capability, battery temperature, state of charge and other factors. Reaching the quoted maximum also requires compatible charging infrastructure.
The vehicle can charge at 800-volt stations and is designed to support 400-volt infrastructure through automatic voltage adaptation. Mercedes-AMG also lists compatibility with five regional fast-charging standards: CCS2 in Europe, GB/T in China, CHAdeMO in Japan, CCS1 in South Korea and NACS in the United States.
If these charging capabilities translate into real-world performance, the GT SUV could significantly reduce charging stops on long-distance journeys. However, the availability of charging stations capable of delivering power at these levels will remain a crucial consideration.
AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL+: An Electric SUV With Sports-Car Handling
Despite its substantial dimensions, the Mercedes-AMG GT SUV has been engineered to deliver the precise handling expected from an AMG performance model.
The centrepiece is the new AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL+ suspension, which combines adaptive air springs with active hydraulic pitch and roll stabilisation. It is standard on the GT 63 SUV and optional on the GT 55 SUV.
Instead of relying exclusively on conventional anti-roll bars, the system uses active hydraulic elements to control body movements during cornering, acceleration and braking.
A central pump and electronically controlled valves regulate hydraulic pressure according to the selected driving mode and current driving conditions. The system is designed to reduce body roll in corners, limit front-end dive under braking and minimise front-end lift during acceleration.
Three-stage adjustable air springs, an integrated 8.2-litre pressure reservoir and hydraulically interconnected dampers help the suspension respond rapidly to changes in the road surface.
The system is also designed to maintain comfort when only one side of the vehicle encounters an uneven surface, helping the SUV remain composed on imperfect roads.
Speed-dependent ride-height adjustment further supports aerodynamic efficiency at higher speeds.
The suspension uses a multi-link arrangement at both the front and rear, with forged aluminium components helping to reduce unsprung mass.
The objective is straightforward: deliver the comfort of a premium long-distance SUV while providing the body control and precision required for enthusiastic driving.
Rear-Wheel Steering and AMG Performance 4MATIC+
The Mercedes-AMG GT SUV also features active rear-axle steering as standard, with rear-wheel steering angles of up to six degrees.
At speeds below 80 km/h, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to the front wheels. This effectively shortens the vehicle’s turning circle, improving manoeuvrability in urban environments and helping the SUV change direction more quickly.
Above 80 km/h, the rear wheels turn in the same direction as the front wheels, by up to one degree. This effectively lengthens the wheelbase and improves stability during high-speed lane changes and sweeping corners.
The system works alongside AMG Performance 4MATIC+, a fully variable all-wheel-drive system designed to distribute torque according to driving conditions.
In the GT 63 and GT 55, three independent axial flux motors allow particularly precise torque management. The two rear motors can also distribute torque between the rear wheels, supporting targeted torque vectoring to improve cornering behaviour.
The front motor can be disconnected when additional traction is unnecessary and re-engaged when acceleration, regenerative braking or road conditions require it.
For the GT 53, the front synchronous motor similarly provides additional traction when required.
Together, these technologies are intended to provide strong acceleration, improved stability and more precise handling in a wide range of conditions, including wet roads, snow and ice.
AMG RACE ENGINEER: Customising the Driving Experience
For drivers who want to fine-tune the vehicle’s behaviour, the GT 63 and GT 55 introduce the AMG RACE ENGINEER system.
The technology combines a high-performance control chip with three rotary controls on the centre console, allowing the driver to adjust key aspects of the powertrain and vehicle dynamics.
Response Control adjusts how quickly the electric motors react to accelerator inputs, allowing the driver to choose between a smoother response and more immediate power delivery.
Agility Control influences the vehicle’s cornering behaviour through variable torque distribution, enabling different handling characteristics depending on the selected driving mode and stability-control settings.
Traction Control provides nine levels of adjustment for the traction-control system in the appropriate performance modes.
The aim is to give experienced drivers greater control over how the electric SUV responds during spirited driving and track sessions.
For everyday use, the system can be left in a more conservative configuration. On a closed circuit, it allows a more individual approach to power delivery, cornering balance and wheel slip.
Seven Driving Modes, From Comfort to RACE
The AMG GT SUV offers seven AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes: Comfort, Sport, AMGFORCE Sport+, RACE, Slippery, Individual and Eco.
Comfort prioritises a relaxed ride, balanced responses and efficient operation. Sport sharpens the vehicle’s reactions for more dynamic driving on public roads.
AMGFORCE Sport+ takes a different approach by adding a simulated combustion-engine experience, while RACE is designed for circuit use with a firmer suspension setting, more direct responses and reduced driver assistance.
The RACE programme also includes features such as Drift Mode, Drag Race, Track Race and Launch Control, subject to the applicable configuration and operating conditions.
Slippery adjusts the vehicle for low-grip surfaces, including wet roads, snow and ice. Eco focuses on efficiency, including optimised power delivery and reduced drivetrain losses. Individual allows drivers to configure selected vehicle parameters according to personal preferences.
An additional boost function can be activated by pulling both steering-wheel paddles in the appropriate driving modes. Mercedes-AMG says this temporarily increases available power and torque while sharpening accelerator response.
The system is also designed to deliver a more pronounced acceleration sensation, accompanied by specific acoustic effects and seatbelt tensioning.
Simulated V8 Sound for an Electric AMG
One of the most controversial aspects of high-performance electric cars is the loss of the sound and mechanical feedback traditionally associated with combustion engines.
Mercedes-AMG is attempting to address this with AMGFORCE Sport+, a system that reproduces the characteristic sound of a V8 in the GT 63 and GT 55, and a six-cylinder engine in the GT 53.
Rather than generating an entirely artificial sound profile from scratch, AMG says the system uses recordings derived from more than 100 measurements involving 16 microphones and reference vehicles, including the Mercedes-AMG GT R.
The resulting soundscape adapts to the driver’s actions, including acceleration and simulated gear changes.
Steering-wheel paddles can be used to trigger simulated shifts, while a dedicated instrument display and integrated seat shakers add further sensory feedback.
Drivers can adjust the sound experience using selectable profiles such as Powerful, Balanced and Silent, with additional settings spanning more traditional and futuristic sound characteristics.
The system also provides dedicated sounds for functions such as unlocking, locking and charging. Mercedes-AMG plans further acoustic experiences, including Launch Control, Boost and Showtime modes.
Purists may argue that simulated engine sounds cannot replace the mechanical character of a real V8. Nevertheless, AMG’s approach demonstrates how manufacturers are attempting to preserve the emotional dimension of performance driving as electrification advances.
Aerodynamics: Active Spoiler and Airflow Management
The exterior design of the Mercedes-AMG GT SUV is not simply a styling exercise. Active aerodynamic systems have been integrated to improve efficiency, stability and traction at different speeds.
The AEROKINETICS Airpanel uses vertical slats in the front bumper to control cooling airflow. Under normal conditions, the slats can remain closed to reduce aerodynamic drag. They open when the vehicle’s cooling systems require additional airflow.
The active AEROKINETICS roof spoiler, fitted to the GT 63 and GT 55, is designed to remain integrated into the vehicle’s silhouette at lower speeds.
From 150 km/h, the spoiler adjusts automatically according to speed, acceleration, vehicle dynamics and cooling-air requirements. Depending on the situation, it can prioritise reduced drag or additional aerodynamic stability.
During more aggressive driving, the spoiler can adopt a steeper angle to improve aerodynamic balance and traction.
The SUV’s low roofline and carefully managed frontal area also contribute to aerodynamic efficiency. At the same time, Mercedes-AMG says its packaging strategy preserves generous headroom, interior space and ground clearance.
Lightweight construction is another part of the equation. The body structure combines aluminium, steel and fibre-reinforced composites to achieve high rigidity while keeping weight under control.
The centrally integrated high-voltage battery is housed within a protective structure that forms part of the vehicle’s crash-management concept.
Exterior Design: Muscular Proportions With a Low GT Silhouette
The new Mercedes-AMG GT SUV adopts an unmistakably performance-focused design.
Its steep front end, wide track, muscular shoulders and flared wheel arches give it an imposing stance, while the low roofline and extended wheelbase distinguish it from more conventional luxury SUVs.
The windscreen and roof flow into a dynamic profile that slopes towards the rear spoiler. Short overhangs and large wheels further emphasise the vehicle’s sporting proportions.
Frameless side windows reinforce the connection with the AMG GT sports-car family, while carefully shaped side surfaces and compact exterior mirrors contribute to the streamlined appearance.
At the front, the AMG-specific radiator grille features metallic vertical struts and a distinctive frame. An illuminated grille and illuminated Mercedes-Benz star are available as options.
The lighting signature includes star-shaped daytime running lights and six circular rear lights arranged in a turbine-inspired design. An optional rear light strip adds another distinctive visual element.
According to Bastian Baudy, Chief Design Officer at Mercedes-Benz Group AG, the SUV’s muscular shoulders, wide track and low silhouette are intended to communicate its performance capabilities before the driver even gets behind the wheel.
Interior: A Driver-Focused AMG Cockpit
Inside, the Mercedes-AMG GT SUV translates the design philosophy of the AMG GT cockpit into a more spacious SUV environment.
The driver sits relatively low and integrated into the vehicle, creating a sportier driving position than the upright seating arrangement typically associated with full-size SUVs.
The dashboard is dominated by a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch central multimedia display angled towards the driver. A separate 14-inch screen is available for the front passenger.
The centre console incorporates physical controls and, in the GT 63 and GT 55, the three rotary AMG RACE ENGINEER controls.
An AMG Performance steering wheel provides direct access to key driving functions, including energy-recovery adjustments through its paddles.
The seats are designed to combine strong lateral support with long-distance comfort. AMG Performance seats with integrated headrests are available as an option.
Mercedes-AMG has also paid attention to rear-seat practicality. Despite the sloping roofline, the rear compartment is designed to provide generous headroom and legroom. A three-seat rear bench is standard, and the rear seatbacks can be folded to increase cargo versatility.
Electrically folding rear headrests add convenience, while the panoramic SKY CONTROL glass roof can switch between transparent and opaque modes. Optional AMG lighting effects are designed to enhance the cabin atmosphere at night.
Ambient lighting, carefully coordinated display themes and a selection of upholstery and trim materials allow owners to personalise the interior.
MANUFAKTUR Personalisation: More Than 60 Paint Colours
Buyers looking for a more individual specification will have access to an extensive MANUFAKTUR personalisation programme.
Mercedes-AMG says more than 60 exclusive exterior paint finishes will be available, providing a broad range of colours and finishes beyond the standard palette.
For the first time, AMG forged wheels can also feature colour accents. Options include matt vanadium silver, matt copper and matt black wheels with contrasting rim details in Angel Blue, Sunny Lime or Orange Flame.
The interior can be customised with MANUFAKTUR seat belts in Fjord Blue, Green Hell or Orange Flame, bringing additional colour into the cabin.
These options allow customers to create a vehicle that reflects their personal tastes while retaining the distinctive proportions and performance-focused design of the AMG GT SUV.
MB.OS and MBUX: AI-Powered Digital Technology
The digital experience is another central element of the new Mercedes-AMG GT SUV.
The latest generation of MBUX runs on the Mercedes-Benz Operating System, known as MB.OS, which coordinates infotainment, vehicle settings and connected services through a unified software architecture.
The driver can choose from several instrument-display styles, including Classic, AMG Special, Pure, Vehicle Data and Trip. The AMG-specific interfaces provide information such as power output, temperatures, tyre data and navigation details.
The Zero Layer interface displays frequently used applications, relevant information and context-sensitive suggestions, allowing drivers to access key functions more quickly.
Mercedes-Benz also integrates three artificial-intelligence services into MBUX: ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing and Google Gemini. The MBUX Virtual Assistant is designed to support more complex, multi-step conversations, making voice interaction more natural.
Availability and functionality of individual services may vary by market, subscription and software configuration.
The system is complemented by three AMG-specific applications: AMG PERFORMANCE MENU, AMG SET-UP and AMG TRACK PACE.
The AMG PERFORMANCE MENU displays real-time information about the vehicle’s electric powertrain and driving dynamics. Energy Flow visualises power distribution between the axles, while Aero Flow shows the status of the active aerodynamic components.
Other functions provide information on tyre and operating temperatures, suspension behaviour, electrical power availability and acceleration forces.
AMG SET-UP allows drivers to configure vehicle functions and customise selected steering-wheel controls, driving programmes and aerodynamic settings.
AMG TRACK PACE: Track Telemetry for Performance Drivers
The GT SUV’s performance technology extends beyond public-road driving.
AMG TRACK PACE records more than 80 vehicle-specific data points at a rate of ten measurements per second, allowing drivers to analyse lap times, acceleration, braking and other performance metrics.
Lap and sector times can be displayed across the instrument cluster, central multimedia screen and head-up display. The system includes a selection of pre-installed circuits and allows drivers to record their own routes.
Track-focused navigation can provide information about corner angles, braking points and the preferred racing line. An augmented-reality function can overlay a previously recorded racing line to help drivers refine their technique.
Acceleration and deceleration data can also be measured and stored for later analysis. An optional dashcam, where available, can record HD video with overlays showing information such as speed, acceleration, steering angle and brake application.
Another advanced feature is the Predictive Performance Manager, or PPM, technology previously used during the record-setting programme of the Mercedes-AMG CONCEPT AMG GT XX.
The system manages the distribution of electrical energy according to the selected RACE or SPRINT strategy and the demands of individual sections of a circuit.
Rather than continuously requesting maximum power, the software can preserve energy on sections where additional output offers limited benefit, making more power available for uphill sections and long straights.
On a demanding circuit such as the Nürburgring Nordschleife, this approach could help improve consistency over multiple laps by balancing power delivery and thermal management.
The technology reflects a growing trend in electric performance cars: intelligent energy management is becoming just as important as peak motor output when chasing repeatable lap times.
Braking Performance: Carbon-Ceramic Hardware for the GT 63
The braking system is tailored to each version of the Mercedes-AMG GT SUV.
The GT 53 features steel brakes at both axles, while the GT 55 also receives steel brakes as standard. Buyers of the GT 55 can specify carbon-ceramic brakes as an option.
The flagship GT 63 comes equipped with carbon-ceramic brakes on both the front and rear axles.
This arrangement reflects the different performance targets of the three models. Carbon-ceramic systems are particularly relevant to vehicles expected to handle repeated high-energy braking, although actual stopping performance also depends on tyres, road conditions, temperature and vehicle load.
Combined with active suspension, rear-wheel steering and variable all-wheel drive, the braking hardware is intended to help the GT SUV maintain control during demanding driving.
Production at Sindelfingen, Germany
The new Mercedes-AMG GT SUV will be assembled at Mercedes-Benz’s Sindelfingen plant in Germany, specifically in Hall 32, which has been adapted for the requirements of AMG.EA production.
The facility will handle key manufacturing processes, including pressed components, body-in-white construction and paintwork.
Founded in 1915, Sindelfingen is one of the historic manufacturing sites within the Mercedes-Benz Group. Its role in producing the new electric AMG underlines the importance of existing German manufacturing facilities as Mercedes-Benz expands its high-performance electric vehicle portfolio.
Mercedes-AMG GT SUV Price and Release Date
The Mercedes-AMG GT SUV will initially be available in three versions, with the GT 53 arriving first.
The GT 53 SUV is scheduled to open for orders on 20 October 2026, with a starting price of €113,050. The GT 55 and GT 63 are expected to follow in spring 2027.
Mercedes-AMG has not provided a complete price list for all variants in the supplied announcement. Final prices, equipment availability and delivery schedules may differ between markets.
For buyers considering a high-performance electric SUV, the three-model line-up provides a clear distinction between the entry-level dual-motor configuration and the more powerful three-motor versions.
The GT 53 offers 544 hp, while the GT 55 raises output to 816 hp. The GT 63 sits at the top of the range with 1,169 hp and a claimed 0–100 km/h time of just 2.5 seconds.
Is the Mercedes-AMG GT SUV a New Benchmark for Electric Performance SUVs?
The Mercedes-AMG GT SUV arrives with an ambitious technical specification and a clear objective: to demonstrate that an electric SUV can deliver supercar-level acceleration without sacrificing long-distance comfort, everyday practicality or charging convenience.
Its combination of axial flux motors, an 800-volt electrical architecture, directly cooled cylindrical battery cells and active hydraulic suspension gives it a distinctive engineering identity within the Mercedes-AMG line-up.
The headline numbers are impressive. Up to 1,169 hp, a 270 km/h maximum speed with the Driver’s Package, a claimed 700-kilometre WLTP range and charging capability of up to 710 kW position the GT 63 SUV among the most ambitious electric performance vehicles announced by the brand.
However, peak power and maximum charging rates tell only part of the story. Real-world range, repeated acceleration performance, charging availability and handling on public roads will ultimately determine how well the vehicle fulfils its promise.
The simulated V8 and six-cylinder sound experience also reveals an important aspect of AMG’s strategy. Electric performance is no longer being defined exclusively by acceleration and power output; manufacturers are increasingly attempting to recreate the emotional feedback that has historically distinguished their combustion-engine models.
If the production vehicle delivers on its technical claims, the Mercedes-AMG GT SUV could become a significant contender in the premium electric performance SUV segment.
For AMG, the mission is clear: preserve the character of a sports car while embracing the possibilities of electrification. The new GT SUV is the brand’s boldest attempt yet to prove that these two worlds can coexist.
Hyundai Motor and Kia are showcasing approximately 200 manufacturing innovations at E-FOREST TECH DAY 2026, highlighting their transition toward software-defined factories, AI-powered production, advanced robotics and more sustainable manufacturing. The three-day event, running from October 19 to 21 at the Hyundai Motor and Kia Uiwang Research Institute in South Korea, demonstrates how the automotive industry is preparing for a new era of intelligent, connected and data-driven vehicle production.
Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation are accelerating their smart manufacturing ambitions with the return of E-FOREST TECH DAY, an annual exhibition dedicated to the technologies shaping the factories of tomorrow. Now in its seventh year, the event brings together the group’s manufacturing experts, technology partners and industry stakeholders to explore innovations designed to improve production efficiency, vehicle quality and the flexibility of global manufacturing operations.
The central theme of E-FOREST TECH DAY 2026 is the transition to software-defined factories (SDFs), a manufacturing concept that uses connected data systems, artificial intelligence and digital technologies to make production facilities more intelligent, adaptable and efficient.
With around 200 new manufacturing technologies on display, Hyundai Motor and Kia are highlighting how digital transformation could reshape everything from quality inspections and assembly operations to energy management and the production of next-generation mobility solutions.
Software-Defined Factories Take Center Stage
At the heart of Hyundai Motor and Kia’s manufacturing strategy is E-FOREST, the group’s smart factory brand. Its objective is to connect every stage of the production process through integrated technologies, combining automation, AI, robotics and human-oriented smart solutions to improve manufacturing performance and deliver greater value to customers.
The development of software-defined factories represents a significant step in this strategy. Rather than relying exclusively on conventional manufacturing equipment and isolated control systems, SDFs use standardized software, connected data and common development environments to support more flexible production processes.
Hyundai Motor and Kia are establishing a unified framework for collecting and managing manufacturing data, alongside a common environment for developing and deploying digital solutions. This approach is intended to make it easier to introduce new technologies at individual production facilities and scale successful applications across the group’s global manufacturing network.
At E-FOREST TECH DAY 2026, the companies will demonstrate progress in foundational SDF technologies, including quality inspection systems and standardized implementation plans designed for rapid deployment at factories in South Korea and international markets.
The long-term ambition is to create manufacturing facilities capable of responding more quickly to changing production requirements while maintaining consistent quality standards across different plants.
Digital Twins and AI Agents Bring Intelligence to the Factory Floor
Digital twins are among the key technologies featured at this year’s exhibition. By creating virtual representations of real factory equipment and processes, digital twins allow engineers to simulate manufacturing operations, identify potential problems and evaluate solutions before implementing changes in the physical world.
This capability could help automotive manufacturers reduce production disruptions, improve equipment utilization and optimize manufacturing processes before committing time and resources to real-world modifications.
Hyundai Motor and Kia will also showcase artificial intelligence agents developed specifically for factory operations. These systems are designed to support tasks such as retrieving and interpreting manufacturing data, searching technical knowledge and production know-how, and creating equipment manuals.
By making information easier to access and use, factory-focused AI agents could help workers and engineers resolve problems more efficiently while reducing the time required to find relevant technical documentation.
The combination of digital twins, integrated manufacturing data and AI-powered assistance illustrates how software is becoming an increasingly important component of modern automotive production.
Rather than simply automating individual tasks, Hyundai Motor and Kia are pursuing a broader transformation in which digital intelligence connects equipment, information and people throughout the manufacturing process.
Automation remains another major focus at E-FOREST TECH DAY 2026, with Hyundai Motor and Kia presenting new technologies designed to improve assembly efficiency and inspection accuracy.
One of the notable developments is a tunnel-type exterior inspection vision system that uses three-dimensional simulation technology to inspect a vehicle’s exterior. Developed in-house as an alternative to third-party systems, the technology is intended to strengthen finished-vehicle quality control.
Automated inspection is particularly important in modern automotive manufacturing, where complex body designs, sophisticated paint finishes and increasingly demanding quality expectations require consistent and reliable evaluation.
By developing its own inspection technology, Hyundai Motor and Kia aim to improve control over the inspection process while creating a system that can be introduced at production plants in South Korea and overseas.
The technology also reflects a wider industry trend: manufacturers are increasingly combining advanced imaging, simulation and intelligent software to identify potential defects more consistently and integrate quality control more closely with production operations.
Alongside inspection systems, the exhibition will present assembly automation technologies intended to improve workplace efficiency and manufacturing quality.
Smart Energy Solutions Support More Sustainable Production
Energy efficiency is another important element of Hyundai Motor and Kia’s smart factory strategy.
The exhibition will feature smart energy solutions designed to support more environmentally responsible factory operations. These technologies form part of a broader effort to make manufacturing facilities more efficient by improving how resources and energy are monitored and managed.
As automotive manufacturers expand their electric vehicle portfolios and adapt production facilities to changing market demands, energy management is becoming an increasingly important consideration. Digital monitoring and intelligent control systems can help manufacturers identify inefficiencies and make better-informed decisions about factory operations.
Hyundai Motor and Kia’s inclusion of energy solutions alongside AI, robotics and software-defined manufacturing demonstrates that the transformation of automotive production extends beyond productivity alone. It also involves improving the operational performance and environmental efficiency of industrial facilities.
Future Mobility Manufacturing: New Forming and Additive Technologies
E-FOREST TECH DAY 2026 will also look beyond conventional vehicle production, showcasing manufacturing technologies intended to support future mobility applications.
Among the areas highlighted are new forming processes and additive manufacturing. The latter enables components and other shapes to be produced directly from digital design data, often without the need for traditional molds.
Additive manufacturing can offer advantages in prototyping, complex geometries and the development of specialized components. Depending on the application, it can also provide greater design flexibility and help reduce the time needed to move from a digital concept to a physical part.
New forming technologies, meanwhile, can support the development of manufacturing processes suited to evolving vehicle architectures and future mobility requirements.
Together, these innovations demonstrate how Hyundai Motor and Kia are exploring manufacturing methods that can complement conventional production techniques while opening new possibilities for component design and industrial development.
Partner Collaboration and Manufacturing Technology Exchange
Beyond the technology displays, E-FOREST TECH DAY 2026 will host a new manufacturing technology presentation conference and a series of partner seminars.
The conference will highlight practical examples of emerging manufacturing technologies intended to strengthen the competitiveness of the group’s global production plants. By sharing implementation cases and technical developments, Hyundai Motor and Kia aim to demonstrate how innovation can translate into measurable improvements on the factory floor.
The partner seminars will focus on opportunities for collaboration across the manufacturing ecosystem, with discussions covering physical AI, data-driven manufacturing innovation and manufacturing AI.
Physical AI, which connects artificial intelligence with machines and real-world operations, is becoming an important area of development as industrial companies explore more capable robots, intelligent automation and systems that can respond to changing physical conditions.
Collaboration with technology partners will be essential to developing these capabilities and adapting them to the complex requirements of automotive production.
The event therefore serves not only as an exhibition of new technologies but also as a platform for exchanging expertise, identifying opportunities for cooperation and strengthening the capabilities of the wider manufacturing industry.
Hyundai Motor Group Plans Wider Deployment of Smart Factory Technologies
Commenting on the event, Hyun Chul Cho, vice president and head of the E-FOREST Strategy Group at Hyundai Motor Group, emphasized the importance of demonstrating technologies that combine innovation with practical manufacturing applications.
He described E-FOREST TECH DAY as an opportunity to show industry stakeholders and partners the capabilities of the group’s manufacturing technologies, adding that Hyundai Motor Group will continue working to expand their use and put them into practice at production facilities.
That emphasis on practical deployment is significant. The value of smart factory technology ultimately depends on whether it can deliver tangible improvements in manufacturing quality, productivity, operational resilience and resource efficiency.
By developing standardized software platforms, introducing AI-driven tools and expanding automation, Hyundai Motor and Kia are seeking to make advanced manufacturing technologies easier to deploy across their global operations.
The strategy also reflects the growing importance of software and data in the automotive sector. As vehicles become more technologically sophisticated and production requirements evolve, manufacturers must increasingly adapt not only their products but also the industrial systems used to build them.
E-FOREST TECH DAY 2026 Highlights the Future of Automotive Manufacturing
With approximately 200 technologies spanning software-defined factories, digital twins, artificial intelligence, robotics, automated inspection, energy management and additive manufacturing, E-FOREST TECH DAY 2026 offers a broad look at Hyundai Motor and Kia’s vision for the next generation of automotive production.
The initiative brings together several major industrial trends: the integration of manufacturing data, the use of AI to support factory operations, the automation of quality control and the development of more flexible and sustainable production systems.
The immediate objective is to improve the performance of existing manufacturing operations. The longer-term ambition is to establish a common technological foundation that allows innovations to be developed, tested and deployed more consistently across factories worldwide.
For Hyundai Motor and Kia, the transition to software-defined factories is about more than introducing new equipment. It represents a shift toward manufacturing environments in which software, data, automation and human expertise work together to make production smarter and more adaptable.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the technologies presented at E-FOREST TECH DAY 2026 provide a glimpse of how the factory itself could become one of the industry’s most important areas of innovation.
