Free-driving mode using E-Active Body Control, available on the 2020 GLE 450 4MATIC, helps drivers gain traction when they’re off-road.
Editor’s note: This story is part of a special section on emerging technologies to be published in the April 8 print edition of Automotive News.
Mercedes' new GLE uses the E-Active Body Control feature called "recovery mode" to free itself if it gets bogged down in mud or sand. It does so by quickly and automatically raising and lowering the suspension several times, which changes the ground pressure under the tires and assists traction by dislodging the sediment from under the wheel.
"It's a Hail Mary when you're stuck," said Paul Harmon, GLE product manager. "It gives you the ability to gain traction when you're off-road."
Free-driving mode is a new use of E-Active Body Control technology, which combines a hydropneumatic active suspension with the Mercedes Airmatic air suspension system.
E-Active Body Control allows spring and damping forces to be individually controlled at each wheel, counteracting body roll, pitch and squat, Mercedes said.
"It essentially functions like a motorbike and leans the car into turns," Harmon said, referring to the technology's capability to counteract body rolls.
Free-driving mode is available as an option on the 2020 GLE 450 4MATIC crossover.
The technology will roll out where needed to other models that have the EQ Boost 48-volt electrical system.
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