The GLE SUV abandoned one of its most exclusive options simply because nobody bought it and that is a shame. This morning, MotorTrend broke the news to the automotive world that from now on no Mercedes GLE will come with the excellent E-ABC (E-Active Body Control) system, which allows the SUV to jump using its hydraulic suspension.
The E-ABC system is much more than a simple party trick and works to keep equipped vehicles flat during curves and the weight distribution of passengers and cargo to prevent the vehicle from sinking. One of the unique advantages of this system is the Free Driving Assistance mode, which allows you to jump your Mercedes-Benz SUV out of the snow or sand. If you are stuck in one of these difficult situations, jumping can have a profound effect on traction to help you loosen up.
To activate Free Drive Assist mode, you must be stopped or at very low speeds for safety reasons. Mercedes-Benz does not limit, however, where you can use this feature, which allows you to display some impressive displays in parking lots. Mercedes-Benz seems to have been inclined to use the E-ABC Free Drive Assist mode for entertainment, as they even made a video clip using it as a backup dancer.
Mercedes-Benz told MotorTrend that the E-ABC was removed from the GLE SUV because of a low capture rate. This system is still offered on the larger GLS-580 as an option and standard on the GLS 600 Maybach. So if you’re looking for a dancing SUV, all you have to do is spend a little more money and Mercedes-Benz will be happy to sell you one.
The exclusive E-ABC suspension system is also offered on state-of-the-art Mercedes-Benz sedans, although bouncy free steering assistance mode is not offered. This is simply because Mercedes-Benz developed the oscillating suspension for off-road and non-display. So it looks like we are a simple ECU way to skip S classes.