Electric Mercedes-Benz G-Class Makes Global Debut

Mercedes-Benz has revealed the much-anticipated electric G-Class. It is called the G 580 with EQ Technology and not the EQG, as was expected earlier. Earlier this year, Mercedes-Benz India did confirm the electric G-Class will be coming to India but a timeline has not been specified. 

Cosmetically, the electric G-Class looks quite similar to the standard G-Class but has a few key differences to make it stand out. The biggest difference up front is the grille or the lack thereof. It gets a closed-off panel instead of the grille, similar to other EVs in Mercedes-Benz’s stable. The grille gets an octagonal, illuminated surround with a big Mercedes-Benz logo in the centre, flanked by four horizontal slats. The headlamp housing and the grille get a Black finish, which is an optional extra. 

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In profile, not much has changed apart from a new design for the alloy wheels. At the back, Mercedes-Benz gives you the option of choosing a tailgate-mounted spare wheel or a square box to store the charging cables, snow chains or tools. 

To improve aerodynamic efficiency, Mercedes-Benz says the bonnet has been slightly raised and the rear wheel arches get air curtains. Furthermore, the cladding on the A-pillar is slightly different as is the spoiler. 

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Inside, it still looks almost similar to the standard G-Class. It has the same 12.3-inch instrument cluster and infotainment screens, grab handle on the dashboard and steering wheel. In terms of features, it gets the Mercedes-Benz’s new transparent bonnet feature, 360-degree camera, MBUX operating system, ADAS and more. 

Powering the electric G-Class are three electric motors producing 580 bhp and 1,164 Nm (combined). Compared to the G 63 AMG, the electric version produces 3 bhp and 315 Nm more. Mercedes-Benz claims the G 580 with EQ Technology can do the 0-100 kmph run in 4.7 seconds and the top speed is limited to 180 kmph. 

The G-Class packs a 116 kWh battery that gives it a WLTP range of 473 km on a full charge. The battery has been integrated into the ladder frame chassis made from 4 mm thick steel. Mercedes-Benz claims the battery can be charged from 10-80 per cent in 32 minutes using a 200 kW DC fast charger. 

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The electric G-Class still retains its off-road credentials. It has an approach, departure and breakover angles of 32, 30.7 and 20.3 degrees, respectively. Water wading capacity has been rated for 850 mm. Mercedes-Benz claims the electric G-Class can climb slopes of up to 35 degrees and has a ground clearance of 250 mm. 

Mercedes-Benz is also moving away from its recent nomenclature of starting the names of its EVs with 'EQ'. However, existing monikers like the EQS, EQE, EQA and EQB will continue till the end of their life cycles.