The Electric Powerhouse: Mercedes Benz G-Wagon EQ G580 Breaks Cover

The all-electric Mercedes Benz G-Wagon, now officially named G 580 with EQ Technology, has been unveiled ahead of its 2024 Beijing Motor Show debut. This highly anticipated vehicle, which follows a preview earlier this year at the Bharat Mobility Expo in New Delhi, is set to hit the Indian market by late 2024 or early 2025.

Maintaining the iconic design of its combustion engine counterpart, the G 450d, the electric G-Wagon showcases a few distinct changes. It sports EQ badges, a redesigned, sealed-off illuminated front grille in gloss black, and a more aerodynamically efficient structure, including a new A-pillar and roof lip spoiler, improving its drag coefficient from 0.48 to 0.44. Additionally, it offers a unique option to replace the traditional tailgate-mounted spare wheel with a charging cable holder, and features updated front and rear bumpers with air dams that include cubicle mesh inserts. Despite these updates, it retains the classic G-Wagon boxy silhouette and ruggedness.

Under the hood, the G 580 is powered by a robust 116 kWh high-voltage lithium-ion battery, integrated into the vehicle’s ladder frame to maintain a low center of gravity and enhance stability. This battery is protected in a torsion-resistant casing, safeguarding it against water and dirt. The battery supports an impressive WLTP range of 473 km per charge and can utilize up to 200 kW DC fast charging.

The electric drive system comprises four motors located near the wheels, each paired with a separate 2-speed gearbox. These motors produce a combined output of 432 kW (580 bhp) and 1164 Nm of torque, enabling permanent all-wheel drive. This setup allows the G-Wagon to reach a top speed of 180 kmph and accelerate from 0-100 kmph in under five seconds.

The G-Wagon’s transition to electric doesn’t compromise its off-road capabilities. It maintains its independent front suspension and integrates a new rigid rear axle that houses the electric drive unit. The vehicle boasts enhanced off-road technology with virtual differential locks via torque vectoring, an impressive water wading capacity of 850mm—100mm greater than its diesel version—and can handle grades of up to 100% on suitable surfaces. Additionally, it remains stable on inclines of up to 35 degrees and features a low-range transfer case with an off-road crawler function that can operate at speeds as low as 2 kmph.

As Mercedes-Benz gears up for the official launch of the G 580 with EQ Technology, this model stands out as a pioneering blend of luxury, performance, and eco-friendly innovation, ready to make a significant impact in the EV market and particularly in the Indian automotive landscape.