Reimagining a Mercedes Icon: The G-Class Goes Electric
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, affectionately known as the G-wagon, is an automotive legend. Its boxy silhouette has remained largely unchanged for nearly half a century, a testament to its enduring appeal. Now, this iconic vehicle is entering a new era with the introduction of the G 580 with EQ Technology – the first all-electric G-Class.
Few vehicles possess the legendary status of the G-Class, which, like the original Mini, Porsche 911, and Volkswagen Beetle, is instantly recognizable. However, unlike those models, the G-Class has retained the essence of its original design, making it a standout among automotive icons.
Reports of the G-Class’s demise have been greatly exaggerated over the years. Faced with stricter emissions regulations, the G-Class has not only survived but thrived, thanks to innovative engineering developments.
The G-Class’s origins trace back to Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi, a Mercedes shareholder who, in the 1970s, suggested the company create a robust military vehicle with all-terrain capabilities suitable for public use. Over the years, various body styles have emerged, including two-door, four-door, and convertible versions, all maintaining the distinctive G-Class look. Even the Popemobile received a G-Class makeover in the 1980s, boosting the vehicle’s profile.
The G-wagon’s transformation into a luxury vehicle in the 1990s, complete with heated leather seats and electric windows, significantly boosted its popularity. Yet, its ruggedness has always been central to its appeal, and it continues to project that image of readiness for adventure.
This is exemplified by the world travelers Gunther Holtorf and Christine, who drove their G-wagon, named Otto, for 900,000 kilometers across 215 countries during their 26-year ‘retirement adventure.’ Today, Otto is displayed at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.
Having sold more than half a million units, with demand showing no signs of slowing down, the company has subtly evolved the vehicle over the years, including tweaks to the fire-breathing AMG G63 twin-turbo V8 petrol engine and a mild hybrid version. The latest model, the G 580 with EQ Technology, represents a significant leap forward—the first all-electric G-Class.
To the casual observer, the electric version looks remarkably similar to its predecessors. It remains a G-Class first, and an electric second, retaining the features that owners and fans appreciate, like the heavy doors with exposed hinges, sturdy push-button handles, and reassuring central locking sound. The biggest visual change is the spare wheel housing charging cables. Purists, however, can still opt for a traditional spare tire.
Removing the internal combustion engine has, arguably, improved its off-road prowess. With an electric motor for each wheel, coupled with a low-range, off-road gear, the car offers exceptional traction and control over the individual wheels. These motors deliver 579bhp and 859lb-ft of torque. Despite the usual incompatibility of electricity and water, this model boasts an impressive wading depth of 850mm, exceeding that of combustion engine models by 150mm.
While the electric G-Class offers a respectable range of 294 miles, it’s not designed for transcontinental off-road adventures, which still require a petrol-powered version and potentially, extra fuel. However, in regions like California, keen on emissions reductions, this vehicle is positioned to be a hit.
For those missing the rumble of a V8, the G-Roar sound feature replicates the engine note of the past. The car also has a notable trick up its sleeve: four individual motors allow the car to perform a ‘tank turn’ — a 360-degree spin on the spot. This feature is designed to get drivers out of difficult off-road situations, like if a fallen tree blocks the road, but it might find equal popularity in urban settings, outside fancy restaurants.
At its core, the G-Class is designed for survival, appealing to a primal need for safety and security. It embodies the qualities of a military-grade transporter, a celebrity runabout, and an emotional buy—a vehicle unlike any other.
The G 580 with EQ Technology is available from £154,810.
