Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology 2024 has been officially launched globally, marking the first electric model from the Mercedes-Benz G-Class series. The car officially bears the name Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology, making it the first full electric Mercedes-Benz G-Class in the world. This step is a significant event for the German manufacturer as it signifies a major move towards electrification. On one hand, the introduction of the G-Wagen BEV 2024 also indicates the company’s larger plans to move towards full electrification in all their product lines. Mercedes’ approach of transforming their iconic SUV into an electrified vehicle also shows their commitment to staking their reputation on a BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) version of the G-Class, which has been known for its large, powerful engine and excellent off-road capabilities.
So, what hidden capabilities does the Mercedes-Benz G 580 with Technology EQ offer? Let’s take a closer look at this off-road SUV.
In terms of appearance, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz G-Class hasn’t changed much compared to its previous generations. The boxy design of the exterior body with large dual round headlights for main illumination, boxy windows, thick overfenders, and horizontal body molding lines running across the middle of the left and right body are all retained. The main differences lie in the more refined front grille design with a black color predominance, LED DRL-surrounded headlights, and the rear of the car which used to house a spare tire, now serves as a socket for battery charger.
Although it falls under Mercedes-Benz’s EQ lineup, the car isn’t called the EQG. This makes it quite interesting as it deviates from the nomenclature Mercedes has set for their previous BEV models, like naming the electric versions of the E-Class and S-Class as EQE and EQS, respectively. However, the G-Wagen BEV is not just a G-Class that had its gasoline engine removed and replaced with an electric motor and battery. Everything is different from its gasoline-powered sibling.
The G-Class BEV still features a ladder frame chassis but is now equipped with four electric motors, each with a two-speed transmission with selectable reduction gears based on the driver’s needs. Two motors with one driveshaft are placed on the front wheels, while two other motors with a different driveshaft are responsible for powering the rear wheels. Each driveshaft also has a short shaft connected to each wheel. According to Mercedes, this is the first mass-produced vehicle from the Mercedes-Benz Group to have individual wheel drive system. The arrangement of four different motors can provide extra torque in situations where maximum traction power is needed. Combined with a proven differential lock system, the G-Wagen BEV can easily handle various obstacles in off-road terrain.
Mercedes also offers a unique feature called G-Turn, which allows the car to rotate on a specific axis. By tapping a few buttons on the center console, holding a lever on the steering wheel, stepping on the accelerator pedal, and a few seconds later, the car can rotate up to two full turns. This feature is recommended only for maneuvering in narrow, unforeseen lanes where forward or backward movement is not possible.
Another special feature available in the G-Class BEV is G-Cornering. This technology assists the inner rear wheel by activating a differential lock to slightly restrain the rear wheel movement when cornering, allowing the G-Class to enter tighter turns compared to conventional off-road vehicles.
The G-Class Electric also features a Crawl mode, which allows the car to maintain very low speeds when traversing rough terrain, enhancing maximum traction. The electric vehicle’s abundant torque and smooth power delivery are also not qualities to be underestimated by the G-Wagen with Technology EQ owners. Mercedes-Benz has set a new standard for the G-Class by incorporating two separate gear ratios on each axle. Drivers can activate the low gear ratio (2:1) option when facing off-road conditions, ensuring that the car maintains a speed of not more than 80 km/h to distribute power efficiently when tackling various obstacles.
With a ground clearance 7.6 mm higher than the gasoline version, the latest G-Class can penetrate challenging terrains more easily. It boasts an approach angle of 32 degrees and a departure angle of 30.7 degrees, as well as wading capability in water depths of up to 851 mm, 152 mm deeper than the gasoline-powered version.
As for the battery and electric motor technology, the Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology is equipped with a 116 kWh capacity battery that is protected by a composite metal and carbon fiber housing that is completely isolating from water, dirt, and other contaminants. This robust battery, weighing 57 kg, is securely mounted to the frame with 50 steel screws. With a thickness of 1 inch (25 mm), the battery housing would have made the car three times heavier if conventional steel plates of the same size were used. This innovative design ensures the car’s safety and stability while maintaining the overall weight of the vehicle.
Mercedes-Benz has developed a 200 kW DC Ultra Fast Charging system for the car, allowing for rapid recharging of the battery. The car’s acceleration from 0-100 km/h in just 4.7 seconds is quite impressive for a 3.5-ton SUV.
Despite having a shorter range than some Chinese SUVs, the Mercedes-Benz G 580 with Technology EQ offers a compelling package for off-road enthusiasts. The launch of this electric car coincides with a decline in interest in pure electric vehicles due to the sudden withdrawal of incentives for EVs by several European countries. While the price of the SUV has not been disclosed by Mercedes yet, it seems that for consumers looking for an off-road SUV without gasoline and emissions, the price won’t be an issue.
In conclusion, the Mercedes-Benz G 580 with Technology EQ is a remarkable electric SUV that brings together off-road prowess with cutting-edge electric technology, ensuring a thrilling and eco-friendly driving experience for off-road enthusiasts.
