The EQ Technology-equipped G 580 retains the same appearance as its gas-powered sibling.
Mercedes-Benz declared back in 2022 that an electrified G-Class would be available by the end of 2024. The company has now formally unveiled the electric variant of its renowned luxury car, which is prized for its uniqueness. A 116 kWh lithium-ion battery that powers the Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology allows it to travel up to 473 kilometres (294 miles) between charges. Additionally, it has a maximum torque of 1,164 Nm and a maximum total output of 432 kW.
The electric model’s angular design, as well as its unique door handles, grille, and round headlights, are very similar to those of the gas-powered G-Class. However, Mercedes provides EQ-only optional lighting, allowing you to customise the vehicle’s appearance and give it a very distinct look from a regular G-Class. The vehicle has multiple off-road modes, including G-TURN, which allows you to turn the vehicle almost instantly, G-STEERING, which may eliminate the need for multi-point turns, and an intelligent off-road crawl function that offers cruise control for off-road drives. The vehicle is powered by four electric motors that are positioned close to each wheel.
Mercedes-Benz ensured that the battery in the car is prepared for off-road travels by putting it in a torsion-resistant housing that shields it from dirt and water. Given that the car may be driven in water up to 33.5 inches deep, the battery most certainly need that level of protection. It can charge using direct current or alternating current, and in just 32 minutes, when connected to a fast-charging DC system, it can charge from 10 to 80 percent. In addition, the G-Class has the ability to transform kinetic energy into electrical energy when you coast or apply the brakes.
Later this year, the G-Class with EQ Technology, known as EDITION ONE, will be launched with “an expanded palette of standard features.” A representative for the business informed TechCrunch that a battery that uses a more energy-dense silicon-anode technology from Mercedes’ partner Silas will be used in a range-extended version that will be available in the coming years.