Mercedes-Benz Electric G-Class Pre-Bookings Commence In India

Updated: Monday, July 8, 2024, 19:02 [IST]

Mercedes-Benz India has started taking pre-orders for the all-electric G-Class, named the G 580 with EQ Technology. This electric version of the iconic G-Wagon will be available next year. The G 580 EV retains the classic boxy design of the standard G-Class but includes some cosmetic updates to distinguish it as an electric vehicle.

The most significant change in the G 580 is its powertrain. It features a quad-motor all-wheel-drive system, replacing the traditional internal combustion engine. This setup delivers up to 579 bhp and 1,164 Nm of torque, enabling the three-tonne SUV to accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in under five seconds. Mercedes-Benz claims that this electric model maintains all the off-road capabilities of its combustion-engine counterpart.

Exterior and Interior Features

The exterior of the G 580 EV closely mirrors that of its combustion sibling, with a few notable differences. The front grille is replaced by a closed-off panel, similar to other Mercedes-Benz EVs. Buyers can choose an EQ-style blanked-out grille with an illuminated surround and black headlamp housings. The profile remains largely unchanged except for a new alloy wheel design.

At the rear, the electric G-Class retains the tailgate-mounted spare wheel but offers an option to replace it with a square storage box for the charging cable. Inside, the cabin looks almost identical to that of the combustion engine G-Class. It features twin 12.3-inch digital displays on the dashboard and an upgraded voice assistant with around 20 unique commands specific to the G-Class.

Powertrain and Performance

The quad-motor all-wheel-drive system powers each wheel individually, producing a combined output of 579 bhp and 1,164 Nm of torque. This allows the G 580 to reach a top speed limited to 180 kmph and accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in just 4.7 seconds. A 116 kWh under-floor battery pack provides power, offering a range of up to 473 km on a single charge.

The G 580 supports up to 200 kW of DC fast charging, enabling it to charge from 10 per cent to 80 per cent in approximately 32 minutes. It also supports up to 11 kW of AC charging for added convenience.

Pricing and Availability

The all-electric G-Class is expected to be priced above Rs 3 crore (ex-showroom) when it launches in India. Mercedes-Benz India unveiled this model earlier this year, highlighting its advanced features and impressive performance metrics.

Optional features for the interior include a rear-seat entertainment package with twin 11.6-inch touchscreens and a Burmester 3D sound system. These additions aim to enhance passenger comfort and entertainment during journeys.

The electric version retains all off-road capabilities such as approach, departure, and sideward slope angles similar to those of its internal combustion engine sibling. Additionally, it boasts a tank-turn capability for improved manoeuvrability in challenging terrains.

This new naming convention marks a departure from Mercedes' current EQ nomenclature system for their electric vehicles. Future EVs from Mercedes-Benz will also drop this naming scheme.

The launch of the G 580 EV represents Mercedes-Benz's commitment to expanding its electric vehicle lineup while maintaining the iconic design and performance characteristics that define the G-Class series.

The introduction of this model aligns with global trends towards sustainable mobility solutions without compromising on luxury or performance standards set by Mercedes-Benz.