Mercedes-Benz' off-road icon gets electrified



The G 580 GELÄNDEWAGEN EV
presents 'unimagined possibilities'

(April 29, 2024) With the all-new Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology, Mercedes presents the first fully electric variant of its off-road icon. It represents a unique fusion of tradition and progressive technology. The all-new electric G-Class features the distinctive silhouette and unmistakable design elements of the model series. The development team has modified and reinforced the robust ladder frame to integrate the electric drive.


It is fitted with independent double wishbone front suspension and a newly developed solid rear axle. The high-voltage lithium-ion battery with a 116-kWh usable capacity is integrated into the ladder frame to ensure a low center of gravity.

"Throughout its more than 45-year history, the G-Class has always used the most modern drive technology available. So, it's entirely fitting that the innovative drive concept with four individually controlled electric motors once again raises the legendary performance of our off-road icon to a new level. It even retains that familiar angular silhouette and is true to the character of our beloved 'Geländewagen'," said Markus Schäfer, Mercedes-Benz chief technology officer.

The four individually controlled electric motors located near the wheels develop a combined output of 579 horsepower. Together with the selectable low range off-road gear reduction, these enable unique driving characteristics and exclusive functions. This allows the G-turn to rotate the vehicle on the spot on loose or unpaved surfaces. The G-steering function can deliver a significantly smaller turning circle when driving off-road. The intelligent off-road crawl function with three available settings supports off-road driving by maintaining optimum propulsion, allowing the driver to focus on navigating difficult terrain.

The G 580 with EQ Technology has the ability to climb up to a 100 percent grade on suitable surfaces, offers high stability on lateral slopes of up to 35 degrees and a maximum fording depth of 33.5 inches —5.9 inches more than the G 550 and AMG G 63.

The low range off-road gear reduction increases torque at the wheels during off-road driving. Off-road capability is further elevated with virtual differential locks through intelligent torque vectoring. G-roar brings a unique sound experience to the electric G-Class with an exclusive driving sound, an "aura" sound and a variety of "event" sounds.

The all-new electric G-Class is immediately recognizable as part of the enduring model series. A number of design elements set the all-electric model apart from the G 550 and AMG G 63, including a slightly raised hood and flared rear wheel arches with air curtains. These contribute to the vehicle's optimized aerodynamics, in combination with new A-pillar cladding and a spoiler lip on the roof edge. An optional black panel radiator grille is available to further sharpen the striking electric exterior.

With four individually controlled electric motors close to the wheels, the all-new electric G-Class offers a unique driving experience both on- and off-road. It is the first series production vehicle from the Mercedes-Benz Group with individual-wheel drive. The four motors are integrated in the ladder frame —two in each housing at the front and rear axles.

These are driven via short axle shafts, meaning the rear electric motors can also be bolted to the chassis. Each electric motor produces 145 hp, which deliver a combined 579 hp and 859 lb-ft of torque. In conjunction with ESP and the central powertrain control (CPC), drive torque is intelligently distributed to optimize traction.

With its innovative drive concept, the Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 112 mph. With peak torque from the electric motors available from a standstill, the all-electric G-Class excels with impressive power and exceptional control. This is especially advantageous on steep inclines and loose surfaces.

While the powertrain is making a jump in technology, the G-class's undercarriage remains a tried-and-true ladder frame, with independent front suspension and a solid rear axle. The frame has been reinforced to support the electric elements, and it integrates the lithium-ion battery to keep weight low. That battery offers a usable capacity of 116.0 kWh, which should translate to roughly 240 miles of range.

The G-wagen's battery contains 216 cells in two tiers, installed between cooling elements. It's protected from water and dirt in a twist-resistant casing, and other components on the underside of the body are covered by a skid plate made of carbon-reinforced plastic. Mercedes says the material is more rigid than steel or aluminum, won't corrode, and is one-third the weight of a comparable steel skid plate.

Both AC and DC charging are possible thanks to an 11-kW on-board AC charger and a DC fast charging system with a charging capacity of up to 200 kW. With DC fast charging, the high voltage battery is able to charge from 10 to 80 percent SoC (State of Charge) in approximately 32 minutes.

The all-new electric G-Class includes three charging programs – "Standard," "Work" and "Home." Users can set parameters such as departure time, climate control and maximum charge level. The "Home" and "Work" charging programs can be activated automatically based on location, which switch on as soon as the vehicle is parked at a saved charging location. Drivers are notified via MBUX that the charging program is active.

Customers are offered many options for customization of their electric G-classes, or if they act fast, they can pick up the Edition One. The $180,000 special edition will be available in five colors: South Sea Blue Magno, Obsidian Black Metallic, Opalite White Magno, Opalite White Bright, and Classic Grey Solid. It gets a blue trim strip, blue brake calipers, a body-color cargo box, a special projection light message when you open the door that says "Stronger Than Time."

The electric G-Wagon will start at around $152,000.