If you haven’t already heard, the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon has gone electric. The three-pointed star marque expressed the desire to electrify its G-Class in 2021 when it revealed the all-electric G-Class concept. Two years on, it has materialized. The all-new Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology—the first-ever all-electric G-Class—was revealed last month.
Aesthetically, it shares a similar outlook and styling with the conventionally powered G-Class—not quite like the flashy concept. Even the chassis is based on the ladder frame concept like the ICE-powered G-Class. But the handling is going to be vastly different because of the power and drivetrain.
It is powered by four individually controlled electric motors with a total maximum output of 432 kW (580 HP—hence the label G 580) and a metal-twisting 1,164 Nm (860 lb-ft) of torque. The electric motors are juiced by a 116 kWh high-voltage lithium-ion battery which is integrated into the ladder frame to achieve a low center of gravity.
This battery system affords up to a WLTP range of 473 kilometers (294 miles) and it is well-protected from water and dirt intrusion by a torsion-resistant casing. The underbody is further reinforced with an underbody protection made from an intelligent mix of materials like carbon.
You have heard of differential locks and electronic differential locks. The all-electric G-Wagon has none of those; instead, it has virtual differential locks via torque vectoring.
While it is aesthetically similar to the regular G-Class, it does rock some subtle design differences. The most obvious would be the front fascia and the slightly raised hood. There is a new A-pillar trim, spoiler lip on the roof, and an interesting feature known as “air curtains” in the rear wheel-arch flares that are said to offer optimized aerodynamics and interior aeroacoustics.
Speaking of acoustics, the new electric G features a G-ROAR sound experience that includes a G-Class-specific driving sound, an “aura” and various “event” sounds.
On the inside, it boasts a redesigned off-road control unit, new OFFROAD COCKPIT, and “transparent hood” – all designed to provide a so-called digital off-road experience. Also in the cabin, you find the MBUX infotainment system and a 12.3-inch driver and media display with touch controls.
Finally, expect a suite of advanced safety and assistance systems to aid in safe driving, as well as innovative drive concepts introduced with this model, including off-road-specific driving functions like G-TURN, G-STEERING, and an intelligent off-road crawl function.
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology is available to configure in Germany, starting at €142,621.50 (around US$155,400 today). No words on its availability elsewhere, though. The new all-electric G-Class was also revealed with an EDITION ONE which is a special model with an expanded palette of standard features.
Images: Mercedes-Benz.
