The All-Electric Mercedes-Benz G-Class: A New Era Begins

Since its debut in 1979, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class has been available with a range of 4, 5, 6, 8, and 12-cylinder engines. But that’s all about to change. In April 2024, the German automaker will introduce an all-new, all-electric variant of the G-Class, dubbed the “0-cylinder” model.

The model’s name isn’t EQG, as some may have expected. Instead, it has a rather lengthy and unusual moniker: G580 EQ Technology. This suggests that Mercedes-Benz either wants to separate the electric G-Class from the rest of its electric lineup or is preparing to rename its electric vehicles across the board.

Design

Compared to the concept car unveiled in January 2023, the Mercedes-Benz G580 EQ Technology hasn’t changed much. The production version’s color scheme appears more rugged and wild than the concept, but the notable details like the round daytime running lights and the illuminated closed-off grille remain.

The concept version (left) and the production model (right) are nearly identical, save for a few minor details scattered throughout. Photo: Mercedes-Benz

The overall shape of the vehicle is also quite similar to the regular G-Class, as is the distribution of the body proportions. Some minor tweaks have been made to optimize aerodynamics, such as a slightly raised hood and air vents near the rear wheel arches. The rear of the vehicle can be fitted with a spare tire or a storage box for essential items like charging cables.

Powertrain

The most significant change on the Mercedes-Benz G580 EQ Technology lies under the hood – or rather, where the hood would be. Four electric motors, one for each wheel, deliver a combined output of 579 horsepower and a whopping 1,165Nm of torque. Compared to the AMG G63, the most powerful model in the previous G-Class lineup, the Mercedes-Benz G580 EQ Technology boasts 2 more horsepower and 315Nm more torque.

This setup allows the Mercedes-Benz G580 EQ Technology to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds, 0.4 seconds slower than the AMG G63. The vehicle’s top speed is also limited to 180 km/h.

Off-Road Prowess

On the other hand, the monstrous torque and, more importantly, its instant availability (thanks to the electric motors) give the Mercedes-Benz G580 EQ Technology off-road capabilities that promise to surpass those of the G63. The vehicle’s wading depth has also been improved to a maximum of 850mm, compared to just 700mm on other variants.

The vehicle’s ground clearance is 249mm, approach angle is 32 degrees, departure angle is 30.7 degrees, and breakover angle is 20.3 degrees – these are some of the off-road performance figures that have been released for the Mercedes-Benz G580 EQ Technology. The maximum climbing angle is 45 degrees.

Technology

The G-Turn technology, which allows the vehicle to rotate 360 degrees on the spot, as previously announced by the manufacturer, makes its debut on the Mercedes-Benz G580 EQ Technology. Complementing this technology is G-Steering, which assists with steering to significantly reduce the turning radius, thereby increasing the SUV’s maneuverability in tight spaces.

The Mercedes-Benz G580 EQ Technology features an independent front suspension and a solid rear axle. The underbody is equipped with a protective frame made of carbon and other durable materials to safeguard the massive 116 kWh battery pack located beneath the floor. The Mercedes-Benz G580 EQ Technology’s driving range has not yet been revealed, but the manufacturer has stated that charging from 10% to 80% using fast-charging technology takes 32 minutes.

Interior as Familiar as the G-Class

Step inside the Mercedes-Benz G580 EQ Technology, and those familiar with the regular G-Class will undoubtedly feel right at home – or, they may not even notice any difference unless they compare photos directly.