A first electric popemobile | The Press

Showing that electrification is spreading to the most unsuspected places, it is now Pope Francis' turn to take possession of his first official vehicle without a thermal engine.

It was the manufacturer Mercedes-Benz which made the announcement last week. For 94 years, it has supplied the famous popemobiles which transport the sovereign pontiff during public events.

Unsurprisingly, this new iteration is based on a Mercedes-Benz G-Class SUV, continuing a 45-year-old mobile tradition. Designed in conjunction with the Vatican authorities, this version uses the G 580 livery powertrain powered by four individual motors to optimize torque distribution when driving off-road. They produce 579 hp in total.

But as it would undoubtedly be risky to take unmarked trails or to push the accelerator all the way with the pope on board, its configuration focused instead on very low speed driving carried out during the sovereign's public appearances. pontiff.

Like other Popemobiles, its body was custom remodeled to accommodate the Pope's raised rotating rear seat as well as a glass roof that protects it from the elements. The exquisite work carried out over a full year by three teams located in Austria, Germany and Italy will soon be put into service for the 2025 jubilee.