Mercedes-Benz Unveils ELF, an Experimental EV Charging Vehicle
The prototype tests everything from megawatt fast charging to wireless power transfer, all in one package.By Natalie NeffPublished: Oct 09, 2025 10:35 AM EDT
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Mercedes-Benz has unveiled a creative new research vehicle called ELF, short for Experimental-Lade-Fahrzeug (Experimntal Charging Vehicle), designed to explore the future of electric-vehicle charging. The project blends multiple charging concepts—from megawatt-level fast charging to wireless inductive systems—into a single platform, so Mercedes engineers can play with several developmental technologies simultaneously.
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ELF functions very much like a mobile lab, combining vehicle engineering and infrastructure research to test next-generation charging technologies under real-world conditions. According to Mercedes, the experimental EV demonstrates “a holistic approach” that unites ultra-fast, bidirectional, solar, inductive, and conductive charging.
Dual fast-charging systems
At its core, ELF uses both Megawatt Charging System (MCS) and Combined Charging System (CCS) connectors. MCS, originally developed for heavy-duty transport, enables charging at power levels in the megawatt range. In ELF, it’s being used to study the thermal and electrical limits of batteries, cables, and electronics for future long-haul applications.
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The CCS system—currently standard for passenger EVs—has been pushed further to reach up to 900 kW of power, capable of adding 100 kWh in 10 minutes. Mercedes says the components are near-production-ready and will influence upcoming vehicles, including models in the Concept AMG GT XX technology program, which recently achieved a record 1,041 kW peak charging rate.
Bidirectional charging
ELF also tests bidirectional AC and DC charging, which allows energy to flow both to and from the vehicle. This enables “vehicle-to-home” (V2H) and “vehicle-to-grid” (V2G) applications, turning EVs into mobile power storage systems that can power homes during outages or provide power in off-grid situations.
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Mercedes says future production models will support bidirectional capability starting in 2026, with initial services launching in Germany, France, and the UK The company estimates that households could save about $580 per year by using intelligent energy management tied to solar and grid services.
Wireless and automated charging
ELF also explores hands-free charging, testing both inductive (wireless) and automated conductive systems. The inductive setup uses magnetic resonance to transmit power—up to 11 kW AC—without physical cables. Mercedes is evaluating it for convenience, safety, and scalability, particularly in markets such as Asia and South Africa, where plug-free systems are in demand.
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The conductive variant, using a charging plate embedded in the floor, achieves similar efficiency while keeping parking areas clutter-free. Both methods aim to simplify the user experience while reducing wear and improving accessibility.
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Beyond vehicle technology, ELF helps Mercedes refine its charging network and infrastructure design. The company’s collaboration with Alpitronic, a European leader in high-power charging, has already produced a prototype charger capable of delivering 1,000 amps via CCS cables—double the current industry norm.
Mercedes says ELF is a preview of how EVs, homes, and the power grid could interact in the near future. By combining ultra-fast charging with bidirectional energy use, the automaker hopes to shrink charging times, cut emissions, and make electric mobility as seamless as refueling a car today.
But for a couple of sketchy, short-lived gigs right out of college, Natalie Neff has had the good fortune to spend the entirety of her professional life around cars. A 2017 Honda Ridgeline, 1972 VW Beetle, 1999 Ducati Monster and a well-loved purple-and-white five-speed Schwinn currently call her garage home.
Renault 5 Turbo 3E Makes Public Debut at Historic Tour de Corse
The 555-hp electric “mini-supercar” honors the 40th anniversary of Jean Ragnotti’s 1985 rally win.By Natalie NeffPublished: Oct 09, 2025 8:00 AM EDTSave Article
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Maybe if we keep writing about it, we’ll eventually get it. Not holding our breath, though.
Renault’s all-electric 5 Turbo 3E—a modern reboot of its iconic 1980s hot hatch—made its first public runs this week at the Historic Tour de Corse rally in Corsica. The appearance coincides with the 40th anniversary of Jean Ragnotti’s 1985 Tour de Corse victory in a Maxi 5 Turbo.
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Two prototypes of the 5 Turbo 3E performed demonstration runs and drifts in Calvi, Corsica, and along the classic Notre Dame de la Serra and Montegrosso stages. Driven by rally driver Julien Saunier, the electric “mini-supercar” impressed onlookers with its agility and power. “Driving this Renault 5 Turbo 3E is such an incredible experience! It really does have everything you’d expect from a super sports car—it’s a true rallying beast,” Saunier said.
Developed by Alpine engineers, the 5 Turbo 3E combines retro styling cues with modern performance. It uses an 800-volt architecture, a 70-kWh battery, and dual rear in-wheel motors producing 555 hp (410 kW) and 3,540 lb-ft of torque.
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Renault says the car sprints from 0-62 mph in under 3.5 seconds and offers a range of more than 250 miles on the WLTP cycle. Charging from 15% to 80% takes about 15 minutes via a 330-kW DC charger.
Built on a lightweight aluminum platform with a carbon-fiber superstructure, the car weighs just under 3,200 pounds. “It certainly deserves the label of ‘mini supercar,’” said Philippe Varet, Alpine’s director of innovations, concepts, and projects.
Limited to 1,980 units—a nod to the original Turbo’s launch year—hopefully some of those are still around in 25 years, the earliest we’ll be able to nab one here.
But for a couple of sketchy, short-lived gigs right out of college, Natalie Neff has had the good fortune to spend the entirety of her professional life around cars. A 2017 Honda Ridgeline, 1972 VW Beetle, 1999 Ducati Monster and a well-loved purple-and-white five-speed Schwinn currently call her garage home.
