What Did Mercedes Actually Patent?
Mercedes-Benz has indeed filed a patent for a system that would allow an SUV to become amphibious. First reported by CarBuzz in early September 2026, the patent details a control system for a two-axle vehicle to enter a body of water, remain stable while
floating, and drive back onto land. This is not a metaphor or a technical nickname for another feature; the German automaker is exploring a genuine amphibious vehicle concept. The patent, listing Joerg Kneip as the inventor, outlines a system to manage a “swimming operation,” but it's important to note that this remains a patent filing, not a confirmation of a future production model.
How Would a Floating SUV Work?
The core of the invention involves removable flotation devices designed to fit inside the vehicle's wheel arches. These could be either lightweight foam sections or, more likely, inflatable components. A central control unit could inflate or deflate these buoyancy aids at each corner independently, allowing the system to compensate for an unbalanced load or strong water currents. When not in use, the deflated components could be stored in the spare wheel compartment and inflated using an onboard compressor, much like a tire repair kit. This allows the vehicle to function as a normal SUV on land and convert for water crossings when needed.
Propulsion Without a Propeller
One of the most innovative aspects of the patent is how the vehicle would move in the water. Instead of a traditional propeller, the system would use the vehicle's own wheels for propulsion and steering. The adaptive suspension could adjust the height of each wheel, allowing the front wheels to drop deeper into the water to act like rudders for steering. Furthermore, the patent is particularly well-suited for an electric vehicle with four independent motors, like the new electric G-Class. This setup would allow a control unit to precisely vary the torque and rotational direction of each wheel, spinning them forward or backward to navigate currents, turn the vehicle, and carefully manage traction when climbing back onto a slippery bank.
Is This Different From the 'G-Turn'?
Yes, this floating technology is completely separate from the highly publicized 'G-Turn' (or 'tank turn') feature of the electric G-Class, officially named the G 580 with EQ Technology. The G-Turn is a maneuver where the vehicle spins 360 degrees on the spot, which is made possible by its four-motor setup. The wheels on one side turn forward while the wheels on the other turn backward, allowing the SUV to pivot on its central axis, a useful feature for tight off-road trails. While the independent wheel control enabling the G-Turn would also be beneficial for the amphibious system, the G-Turn itself is a land-based maneuver and distinct from the water-flotation patent.
Will We See a Floating G-Class Soon?
While the electric G-Class seems like the perfect candidate for this technology due to its advanced drivetrain and off-road pedigree, Mercedes has not officially linked this patent to any specific model. Automakers frequently patent ideas and engineering solutions that never make it to production. They serve to protect intellectual property and explore future possibilities. As of now, there is no official timeline or confirmation that an amphibious Mercedes-Benz will be rolling into showrooms. For now, it remains an intriguing glimpse into how Mercedes is pushing the boundaries of what an off-road vehicle can do.
