Magna Expands Its Long-Term Partnership With Mercedes-Benz

For several decades, Magna has been a partner to Mercedes-Benz, collaborating in multiple areas, including powertrain and drivetrain systems, ADAS technologies, body and chassis components, electrification, interior systems, vehicle assembly and more. This long-term partnership includes the production of more than 500,000 of the off-roader at Magna’s Graz, Austria, facility since 1979.

“Strong partnerships with our customers are essential for driving innovation and advancing the automotive industry,” said Eric Wilds, Magna chief strategy & commercial officer. “Our continued partnership with Mercedes-Benz exemplifies how working together can lead to groundbreaking solutions and mutual success.”

In 2024, Magna began production of the eDS Duo at its Lannach, Austria, facility. According to the company, the eDS Duo is a unique eDrive system with exceptional traction properties. The all-new electric model of the iconic off-roader is now equipped with this advanced electric drive system for leading performance and efficiency.

“Having supplied three generations of transfer cases for Mercedes-Benz’s iconic off-roader, Magna is honored to now equip this legendary vehicle with its first generation of electric units,” said Diba Ilunga, president of Magna Powertrain. “The eDS Duo demonstrates Magna’s flexible approach to delivering powertrain solutions, transitioning seamlessly from internal combustion engines to battery electric vehicles.”

Per the press release, the eDS Duo is a two-speed, dual e-motor drive covering a power range of up to 240 kW that offers leading traction and off-road capabilities, including a unique wheel-individual propulsion system that enables features like the “G-Turn,” allowing the vehicle to rotate 360 degrees in place. With optimized efficiency and advanced silicon carbide and decoupling technology, the eDS Duo delivers exceptional performance while maintaining high efficiency.