From the Ford Mustang Mach-E testing at high-speed in the snow to the Rivian R1T pickup conquering harsh off-road terrain, automakers are on a mission to prove that electric powertrains are just as durable and capable, no matter what the conditions.

Mercedes-Benz has just jumped on this bandwagon with the one-off EQC 4x4² design study. Based on the EQC 400 4Matic, this is an electric luxury SUV that can confidently head off-road, which becomes clear when taking a look at its beefed-up design.

The wheel arch flares are hard to miss, as is the raised suspension which makes the EQC 4x4² close to eight inches taller than the standard EQC. The ground clearance and fording depth have both increased by around 5.9 inches, too. These numbers have been achieved by implementing multi-link portal axles, whereby the wheels are positioned much lower than the axle center.

Compared with the EQC 400 4Matic, approach/departure/breakover angles are up to 31.8/33/24.2 degrees, compared with the standard model's 20.6/20/11.6 degrees. A tight turning circle is maintained thanks to the four-link front axle in spite of the large 20-inch wheels.

Being an otherwise silent EV, the EQC 4x4² comes with its own soundscape, whereby various sounds provide the driver with audible feedback on system availability and parking, while also creating a more emotional driving experience. This system is influenced by factors such as speed and the position of the accelerator pedal. In addition to this is an external noise generator, with the headlamps used as external speakers known as "lamp speakers".

Following the G500 4x4² and the E400 All-Terrain 4×4² study, the new EQC 4x4² becomes the third member of the Mercedes-Benz 4x4² family.

"The EQC 4x4² shows how enjoyable sustainable mobility can be," said Markus Schafer, member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Mercedes-Benz AG responsible for Daimler Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars COO. "To put it succinctly, electric, progressive luxury goes offroad."

One final benefit pointed out by Mercedes-Benz? Outdoor enthusiasts setting off in the EQC 4x4² in the early hours of the morning, often in the most remote areas, won't wake up other adventurers in the camp due to the SUV's silent powertrain. Although just a design study for now, the EQC 4x4² shows that no matter what type of lifestyle you live, there's an EV for the job.