Mercedes Cancels Unconventional Maybach Sedan-SUV Concept

Collective Relief: Sighs of Joy

According to reports, Mercedes-Benz has discontinued the progress of its Vision Mercedes-Maybach Ultimate Luxury model, which was a peculiar combination of a luxury SUV and a sedan.

According to a report by Handelsblatt, Mercedes executives have recently made the decision to halt production of their electric luxury vehicle. This move comes a few months after the initial plans for the sedan-SUV hybrid to be available for purchase in China by 2025. As one of the top consumers of Maybach products and the largest automotive market globally, China has a strong demand for high-end SUVs and sedans, especially those with an elongated wheelbase.Production of the upscale electric car has come to a stop, as revealed by the German publication Handelsblatt. The decision was made by top officials at Mercedes a couple of months back. Initially, the well-known Stuttgart-based carmaker had intended for the combination sedan and SUV to be ready for sale in China by 2025. Being the largest auto market across the globe, China is also a major purchaser of Maybach goods and has a huge appetite for lavish SUVs and sedans, particularly those boasting an extended wheelbase.

The idea of merging the two appears to be an obvious decision. Mercedes had intentions of manufacturing it in China, rather than the current production location for the Mercedes-Maybach GLS in America. Then, one must question why the renowned German company ultimately decided to scrap their plans for the Ultimate Luxury SUL (Sport Utility Limousine).

In a recent interview, Mercedes revealed that they have decided to scrap the Maybach Ultimate Luxury model due to its intricate design and high manufacturing costs. Despite this setback, there are still plenty of opulent electric vehicles available for affluent Chinese buyers, including the recently released Maybach EQS SUV. These high-end EVs, as well as other luxury models from Mercedes, are all built on the EVA2 platform, which was initially planned for use in the now-canceled Maybach Ultimate Luxury concept.

CarBuzz has made contact with Mercedes-Benz USA in order to gather further details. Upon receiving a response, the article will be revised and updated accordingly.

Although not favored by all, the design of the Maybach Ultimate Luxury holds potential with its notable qualities. The interior, in particular, is striking and served as inspiration for various Mercedes SUVs. Another noteworthy aspect is the electric powertrain. With an impressive 738 horsepower, it was designed to be a high-speed vehicle. Its maximum velocity, however, was restricted to 155 mph.

One aspect that would have required significant enhancement was the purported distance estimate. Despite being equipped with an 80 kWh battery, the projected range was only 200 miles.

There is a strong likelihood that Mercedes discontinued the SUL due to shifts in their larger goals. As a reminder, the car company recently implemented a new strategy prioritizing lucrative luxury models and custom-made vehicles. As a result, Maybach will position itself as a direct competitor to prestigious brands like Bentley and Rolls-Royce, crafting hand-built, personalized cars aimed at the elite market. With this in mind, it is certain that the sub-brand will offer exceptional SUV conversions, rendering the Ultimate Luxury unnecessary.

Mercedes is set to launch a Maybach variant of the SL convertible, creating a direct competition with the Bentley Continental GT for Stuttgart. Additionally, the high-end brand will target collectors and those seeking unique options through its Mythos series. Anticipated for release in the upcoming year, these exclusive vehicles will surpass the Maybach line in terms of luxury and prestige.

It is possible that the Vision Mercedes-Maybach Ultimate Luxury will be included in this series, indicating that its demise is only fleeting. We will provide further updates as they become accessible.