Mercedes-Benz is bracing for the imminent debut of the all-electric Mercedes G-Class. Set to be unveiled on April 24th in Beijing, this car marks a significant milestone in the long history of the G-Class and it’s set to retain the famous G-Class name. The electric G-Wagen will be known as the ‘Mercedes G 580 with EQ Technology’ rather than taking the Mercedes EQG moniker as previewed by the Mercedes EQG Concept and suggested by Mercedes naming strategy for its existing ‘EQ’ range of electric cars.
The Mercedes G-Class has a heritage dating back to 1979. It was originally conceived as a military vehicle and renowned for its rugged durability and formidable off-road performance. Over the years, the G-Class has evolved into a car which is just as comfortable cruising around Chelsea as it is cresting the dunes of Dubai.
Powered by four individual electric motors, one on each wheel, the G 580 with EQ Technology aims to deliver power and off-road capability. It is likely to feature a 108.4kWh battery, the same as used in the Mercedes EQS SUV. The G 580 has been revealed to have an average efficiency of 2 to 2.2 miles per kilowatt-hour, which when paired with the battery from the EQS that would mean a maximum mileage of 238 miles on each charge. However, the exact figures are yet to be released.
Unlike conventional electric vehicles, which often sacrifice off-road prowess for on-road efficiency, the Mercedes will aim to deliver on both these important aspects. Its robust ladder frame chassis, independent front suspension and rigid rear axle are given as evidence by the brand that the G 580 is “ready to set new benchmarks for off-road performance”.
The SUV’s unique abilities were demonstrated at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024 in Las Vegas when the Mercedes Concept EQG showed-off a manoeuvre called the ‘G-Turn’. The move is a 720-degree turn on the spot that the G 580 can perform with the electric motors on each wheel spinning in opposite directions. Another feature that was previewed at the same time by the concept was a potential storage space in a squared off box on the tailgate that takes the place of a spare wheel holder – an ideal location to house the charging cable.
In terms of exterior design, the electric G 580 looks to retain the iconic silhouette of the current G-Class and its predecessors, while incorporating modern enhancements. Inside the cabin, the G 580 should offer dual 12.3-inch screens running Mercedes’ latest MBUX infotainment system which is shared across all new Mercedes models.
