Mercedes | The G-Class goes electric

Mercedes-Benz recently revealed the electric version of its iconic G-Class SUV in final form. Always faithful to its military origins with its ladder chassis, the adventurer in a suit promises a number of feats thanks to the flexibility of its electric motors.

Dropping the differentials necessary for the proper functioning of the thermal liveries, this G-Class (officially named G580) has four electric motors which provide, with torque vectoring, the necessary torque control when driving off-road. Mercedes-Benz colorfully calls this “virtual wheel locking”. Total power reaches 579 hp and maximum torque is 879 lb-ft, or 252 lb-ft more than the twin-turbo V8 of the G 63 version. The behemoth can thus reach 100 km/h in just 4.7 seconds. .

A large 116 kWh battery stores energy and is compatible with a maximum charging power of 200 kW. Nothing has been specified regarding the targeted autonomy, which should invariably suffer from the cubic design, which has nevertheless been tweaked to reduce drag.

Despite this electric shift, this G-Class remains a formidable tool for negotiating a complex off-road course. Thanks to individual transmissions assigned to each engine, a “Low Range” mode allows torque to be multiplied for more liveliness at low speed. The SUV can also turn around using the G-Turn function to get out of an unfortunate position.

A stability control system adaptable according to surfaces ensures that the SUV stays on the trail. Its independent front suspension and rigid rear axle have been completely revised for the very different mandate.

The Mercedes-Benz G 580 will go on sale in the second half of the year at a price that has not yet been specified.