Mercedes-Benz has finally revealed its electric version of the iconic G-Class, the G580 with EQ Technology. This behemoth of off-road capability combines traditional Mercedes luxury with significant electric powertrain upgrades, making it a true showstopper on both trails and valet stands. The German automaker has been teasing this electric variant since 2021, and its arrival is highly anticipated.
Design-wise, the G580 retains the same styling as its gasoline counterparts, with only subtle differences to distinguish it from its internal-combustion siblings. The most noticeable changes include a raised hood, flared wheel arches that incorporate air curtains, and a charge port. This is because the electric G-Class uses a modified ladder frame, which has been adapted to house a battery pack and electric motors. The battery pack, measuring 116 kilowatt-hours, is slung under the floor and protected by a lightweight mixed-material skid plate.
The electric G-Class packs impressive power, with a quad-motor powertrain generating 579 horsepower and 859 pound-feet of torque. This propels the vehicle from 0-60 mph in a mere 4.6 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 112 mph. What’s more, each motor has its own transmission with a low-range reduction gear, providing the same effect as the transfer cases found in internal-combustion off-roaders.
Off-road capability is exceptional, with the electric G-Class boasting a claimed 9.8 inches of ground clearance and the ability to ford up to 33.5 inches of water. Other notable numbers include a 32.0-degree approach angle, 30.7-degree departure angle, and 20.3-degree breakover angle. The quad-motor powertrain also enables innovative features such as G-Turn, G-Steering, and intelligent crawl function, which maintain a preset speed over loose surfaces.
Mercedes-Benz G-Class Goes Electric
However, the electric G-Class has one notable drawback – it lacks the auditory experience of an internal-combustion engine. To compensate, Mercedes has introduced an artificial soundtrack dubbed G-Roar, which mimics the sound of a gasoline engine.
Charging is a breeze, with a 200-kilowatt DC fast charger capable of providing a 10% to 80% charge in a claimed 32 minutes. The G580 also features an 11-kWAC onboard charger, which can fully recharge the battery in 13.5 hours.
Inside, the G580 offers luxurious accommodations similar to its gasoline counterparts, complete with Nappa leather upholstery, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) system also features a 360-degree camera system with “transparent hood” function, allowing drivers to assess terrain more effectively.
The Edition One variant launches in the U.S., featuring special paint options and exterior and interior trim details. Pricing has not been disclosed, but industry experts anticipate a premium price tag commensurate with the G-Class’ luxurious off-road capabilities. The arrival of electric G-Class is a significant step forward for Mercedes-Benz, as it competes with emerging electric off-road offerings from GMC Hummer, Rivian, and Jeep.
As the electric off-roading terrain evolves, the Mercedes-Benz G580 with EQ Technology is poised to make a lasting impression. Will it be a game-changer in the off-road world, or simply a luxury variant of an already-iconic model? Only time will tell.
