Mercedes is exploring a new approach to amphibious vehicle technology through a German patent describing a system that could allow a future two-axle SUV to enter a river, float across, and climb back onto land with minimal driver assistance.
Amphibious Vehicles Are Not a New Concept
Amphibious vehicles have appeared in military equipment, unusual off-road vehicles, and movie props, but the ability to float on water remains far from a standard feature at a local dealership.
More recently, several Chinese EV makers have demonstrated floating vehicles, with some successfully crossing rivers during demonstrations. However, those displays have largely focused on attracting attention rather than presenting a practical feature for everyday driving.
Mercedes appears to be taking a different approach. The newly revealed German patent describes a system that could allow a future two-axle passenger vehicle to roll into a river, float across it, and climb out on the other side without relying on conventional propellers or jet drives.
Instead, the proposed system would use existing vehicle components, including the wheels, suspension, sensors, and software.
Water Mode Without Propellers
The patent does not identify a specific Mercedes model, referring only to a two-axle passenger vehicle. However, the concept closely fits the Mercedes G-Class, the brand’s established off-road vehicle with advanced suspension, terrain modes, and extensive software systems.
The patent describes a dedicated Water Mode designed to manage every stage of a river crossing, from entering the water and floating through it to climbing back onto land.
Once afloat, the SUV would use its rotating tires as paddles. Software would independently control the speed of each wheel to counter water currents and help keep the vehicle on its intended course.
Anchor Mode and Active Suspension
The proposed system also includes an “anchor” mode that would use GPS and sensors to detect the current, position the SUV upstream, and rotate the wheels backward at an appropriate speed to prevent the vehicle from drifting.
At the same time, the active suspension could independently raise or lower individual wheels to help stabilize the vehicle in rough water conditions.
Mercedes is also considering removable foam or inflatable inserts positioned inside the wheel arches. These inserts could increase flotation and reduce water turbulence while helping the wheels function more effectively as paddles.
A System Designed for the Exit as Well
The patent also addresses the challenge of leaving the water. The system could monitor when individual wheels regain traction and adjust power accordingly, preventing excessive wheelspin as the SUV attempts to climb back onto land.
Rather than simply turning the G-Class or another SUV into a boat, the concept appears focused on combining independent wheel control, active suspension, navigation technology, and sensors into a single off-road water-crossing mode without requiring additional marine hardware.
Flotation Inserts Could Remain Hidden
The removable flotation inserts represent another part of the concept. Instead of using large pontoons or external floats, Mercedes proposes lightweight inserts that could fit inside the wheel arches without significantly changing the vehicle’s overall shape.
The patent also suggests inflatable versions that could be stored in the trunk and deployed only when needed.
Still Only a Patent for Now
As with many automotive patents, there is no indication that the system will reach production. Automakers frequently patent concepts that never move beyond development, while others may be significantly changed before appearing in a production vehicle.
For now, the Mercedes water-crossing SUV system remains a patent concept, offering a glimpse at how the automaker could combine existing vehicle technologies to tackle one of off-roading’s most unusual challenges.
