Mercedes' Next SUV Can Float — New Amphibious Patent

Mercedes files patent for a true amphibious SUV

Mercedes-Benz has lodged a new patent in Germany for an advanced control system that could let a future SUV enter deep water, stay afloat and return to land without outside assistance. Rather than simple wading capability, the design relies on inflatable buoyancy modules and smart software to give the vehicle genuine amphibious behavior.

How the floating system works

Buoyancy comes from foam elements or inflatable bags stored in the wheel-arch cavities. A central control unit independently adjusts inflation at each corner to keep the SUV balanced against waves, shifting loads and turbulent currents. When deflated, the air cushions sit neatly in the spare-wheel well; a built-in compressor pumps them up before water entry.

Propulsion and steering on water

The system uses the vehicle's main propulsion to move while afloat. Rotating tyres, combined with changes in the adaptive suspension geometry, effectively act like rudders. Per-wheel torque management applies forward or reverse forces to steer and prevent lateral drift when transitioning back to land. In short, the patent describes a full amphibious drivetrain rather than the limited low-speed wading some off-road models offer.

Key highlights:

• Inflatable buoyancy modules stored in spare-wheel area
• Centralized software control for independent corner inflation
• Use of main motors and rotating tyres for water steering
• Torque vectoring to control heading and re-entry to land

Quote: 'This is a step beyond traditional wading systems, aiming at true amphibious capability,' the patent summary suggests, pointing to rescue, expedition and niche luxury use cases.

Compared with vehicles like the Mercedes G-Class, which can ford shallow water, this concept aims for sustained flotation and controlled navigation in deeper conditions. Market adoption would hinge on safety certification, waterproofing of critical components and consumer demand for specialty off-road features. Still, the patent highlights Mercedes' appetite for pushing SUV innovation into new territory.