It's no longer a mystery that Mercedes-Benz is working on a full lineup of all-electric vehicles, but information as to when these zero-emission means of transportation will be launched is still scarce. Today, we learned that the first such vehicle could be showcased as soon as the 2016 Paris Motor Show in October.

That's the word from Autocar, which claims,-- quoting "a Mercedes-Benz official with knowledge of the new electric vehicle" -- that the German brand will unveil a battery-powered SUV concept at the French event. The show car will preview an advanced, all-electric SUV that will go into production in 2019 as a competitor for the Tesla Model X.

Currently undergoing construction at Mercedes' workshop on the outskirts of Stuttgart in Germany, the concept will provide insight into the company's first dedicated electric car and hints toward the manufacturers upcoming EV lineup, which will also include a rival for the successful Tesla Model S. The SUV will feature unique styling and will have nothing in common with the brand's existing SUV lineup.

“We’ve created a whole new look that takes into consideration the unique properties of electric vehicles,” the insider said. Other details are yet unavailable, but based on previous Mercedes-Benz concepts, the SUV will likely feature a very futuristic design that will be toned down for production. We expect it to feature semi-autonomous driving technology and preview Mercedes' next-generation infotainment system and safety equipment.

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Why it matters

Although Mercedes-Benz is no stranger to electric drivetrains and has been experimenting with the technology for quite a few decades now, its current production EVs are based around existing models such as the Smart ForTwo and the B-Class. That's about to change by the end of the decade with dedicated models and a range that will include larger vehicles such as a midsize sedan and SUV. It feels as if Mercedes is arriving a bit late to the electric car party, but the company's known reliability and state-of-the-art technology will most likely make up for it. As long as the Germans don't go for wild features such as the Model X's "falcon" doors and a ridiculous sticker, they should have a success on their hands. All we can do for now is wait and see what this new concept car has in store.

2016 Tesla Model X

Read our full review on the 2016 Tesla Model X here.