The Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen has finally gone electric – don't call it a member of the EQ family.
Legendary electric version G class is expected to be named EQG, in line with Mercedes-Benz's naming convention for its battery-powered models.
However, the reveal of the model brought with it the official name: Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ technology.
While almost all existing EQ-badged models run on separate platforms from those of the petrol and diesel versions, the electric G-Wagon still uses a reliable body-on-frame chassis to Maintains reliability off-road.
Powering the G 580 are four electric motors – one for each wheel – producing up to 432kW of power and a combined 1164Nm of peak torque. That's easily enough to put the G63 AMG's twin-turbo V8 to shame, developing 2kW of power but 314Nm less.
Mercedes-Benz claims the boxy electric SUV can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 4.7 seconds, before reaching an electronically limited top speed of 180km/h.
The motor is powered by a 116kWh lithium-ion battery pack, protected by a 26mm thick plate with carbon mixed in to prevent punctures. It boasts a claimed driving range of 473km on the WLTP cycle.
Unlike most electric vehicles (EVs), the G 580 has a reduction gearbox for low-range off-road driving, limiting the maximum speed to 85km/h.
An automatic virtual differential lock engages to help control the SUV when driving on rough surfaces, although this is achieved via torque vectoring as the G-Wagon lacks a physical differential.
And yes, Mercedes-Benz is putting the G-Turn into production, allowing drivers to make their passengers (and themselves) seriously ill by turning the EV on its axle.
A slightly more practical feature is G-Steering, which uses the same principle to reduce its rotation. Think of two people paddling a canoe, one person pushing against the current while the other paddles.
Mercedes claims impressive numbers for the G 580, including the ability to drive uphill 45 degrees (or tilt 35 degrees to the side). It also has approach, departure and breakover angles of 32, 30.7 and 20.3 degrees, respectively.
Without an engine to worry about swallowing water, the G 580 is capable of wading 850mm, 150mm more than the G63.
There are three on-road driving modes to choose from (Comfort, Sport, Individual) and two off-road driving modes (Trail, Rock), depending on the surface being ridden.
If you think you'll miss the rumble of the G63's V8, Mercedes-Benz has equipped its EV SUV with the “G-ROAR sound experience.”
An integrated 11kW AC charger and 200kW DC charging capacity are standard.
The electric G-Wagen has three charging programs to choose from, including Standard, Work or Home. Drivers can preset departure time, climate control and maximum charge level on all three, with Home and Work capable of activating based on location.
Although the EV G differs significantly from the petrol version, its appearance has not changed much – except for the raised bonnet, new A-pillar trim, roof spoiler and air curtains for the rear.
Aerodynamically optimized 18-inch gloss black 5-split-spoke alloy wheels come standard, although opting for the AMG Line appearance package includes 20-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels as well as side steps, branded brake calipers and illuminated stainless steel. steel door sill.
A night package with colored lights, black wheels, black mirror caps and badging is also available.
Inside, there are the usual luxury amenities such as open-pore natural walnut wood interior, nappa leather steering wheel, along with dual 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system. entertainment news, continues to run on MBUX operating software.
The navigation system can take into account selected routes and plan where to stop to charge or even which driving mode to use.
Optional equipment includes a black grille, 11.6-inch rear display, keyless entry and a Burmester 3D sound system.
Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, a surround-view camera, and traffic sign recognition.
Mercedes-Benz Australia is yet to confirm when we can expect to see the G 580 in local showrooms and how much it will cost Down Under.
European models will start at €142,621.50 – equivalent to more than $235,000.
The G63 AMG, the only G-Class sold in Australia, is priced from $363,561 before on-road costs.
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