Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the highly anticipated all-electric G-Class, officially named the G 580 with EQ Technology. This model marks a departure from Mercedes’ EQ nomenclature system, which will also be dropped for future EVs. The G 580 EV maintains the iconic boxy design of the traditional G-Class, with minor cosmetic updates to distinguish it as an electric vehicle. The major changes lie beneath the surface, where a quad-motor all-wheel drive system replaces the internal combustion engine, propelling this 3-tonne SUV to 100 km/h in under 5 seconds.

Design and Features

Visually, the G 580 EV stays true to the G-Class’s classic looks, featuring body-coloured headlamp surrounds and a closed-off grille with a four-slat design. Optional upgrades include an EQ-style blanked-out grille with an illuminated surround and black headlamp housings. The A-pillar has new cladding for improved aerodynamics, and the rear wheel arches feature air curtains along with a roof-mounted spoiler.

The rear of the vehicle retains the tailgate-mounted spare wheel, though buyers can opt for a square storage box instead, ideal for storing the charging cable and tools. The first edition models come with this storage box as standard.

Inside, the cabin remains largely unchanged from the internal combustion G-Class, featuring twin 12.3-inch digital displays. The G 580 with EQ Technology benefits from an updated voice assistant with simplified commands, including around 20 commands unique to the G-Class. Additional options include a rear-seat entertainment package with twin 11.6-inch touchscreens and a Burmester 3D sound system.

Powertrain and Performance

The G 580 EV”s traditional engine is replaced by a quad-motor all-wheel drive electric drivetrain, delivering 579 bhp and 1,164 Nm of torque. The motors are powered by a 116 kWh under-floor battery pack, providing a claimed range of up to 473 km on a single charge. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h time of 4.7 seconds and a top speed limited to 180 km/h. The vehicle weighs 3,085 kg (kerb weight).

Charging options for the G 580 EV include up to 200 kW of DC fast charging, which can charge the vehicle from 10 to 80 percent in about 32 minutes, and up to 11 kW of AC charging.

Off-Road Capabilities

Despite its electric powertrain, the G 580 EV retains its off-road prowess. It features a torque vectoring system that mimics the locking differentials of the internal combustion models, managed by the vehicle’s computers. The battery pack is protected by a 26 mm thick, 57.6 kg skid plate, ensuring durability on rough terrains.

The G 580 EV also offers a ‘low range’ option with reduction gears in each motor”s gearbox, activated in the ‘Rock’ off-road mode. This mode also enables the G-turn feature, allowing the vehicle to perform 360-degree tank turns by rotating the wheels on each side in opposite directions, although this is limited to two full rotations. Additionally, the G-Steering feature uses torque vectoring to reduce the vehicle’s turning circle at speeds up to 25 km/h.

Specifications and Comparisons

The G 580 EV has approach and departure angles of 32 degrees and 30.7 degrees respectively and can handle sideward slopes of up to 35 degrees. It offers a breakover angle of 20.3 degrees and a fording depth of 850 mm. These figures compare favourably with the 2025 internal combustion G-Class, which has approach and departure angles of 31 and 30 degrees respectively.

With these advancements, the G 580 EV continues the G-Class legacy, combining classic design with modern electric performance and off-road capability.