The all-electric model was unveiled to a community of influential enthusiasts of the brand at an exclusive world premiere in Los Angeles’s Franklin Canyon Park. Celebrating the diverse following of the iconic G-Class across music, fashion, art and culture, the event was attended by Mercedes-Benz ambassadors and friends of the brand, including Tracee Ellis Ross, Selma Blair, Ciara, Zack Bia, Joseph Lee, Madelaine Petsch, Trevor Noah, Saweetie, Siobhan Bell, Veneda Carter, Reese Cooper, Kacy Hill, Aminé, Evan Ross, Nigel Sylvester, Brandon Thomas Lee, Joyce Wrice, George Russell, Chase B, Justine Skye, Brent Faiyaz, Miles Chamley-Watson, Zane Lowe, Michael Uzowuru, Fahri Yardım, Bakar and many more. There was also a special surprise performance by renowned musician Travis Scott.
First launched 45 years ago, the G-Class, which takes its name from Geländewagen meaning off-road vehicle, formed its reputation globally as a sought-after brand icon. With its rugged durability, 80 percent of all G-Class vehicles ever built remain in use on- or off–road.
Geländewagen Electrified: The Ultimate G-Class Experience
Throughout the event, guests continued to experience a unique G-Class universe: The all-new Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology EDITION ONE emerged from water amongst light projections and mystical smoke. A surprise performance by musician Travis Scott added to the staging as guests were treated to an exclusive set. A second electric Geländewagen, was then unveiled offering guests a chance to see the all-new electric G-Class up close. During the evening, guests partied to the sounds of Chase B and Zack Bia.
“Los Angeles is a place famous for its legends, which is why we chose to reveal our new electric G-Class right here in Beverly Hills. For over four decades, the G-Class has shown its ability to go almost anywhere on the planet, and tonight the tables were turned. We’re very grateful that so many of our beloved G-family like Kendall Jenner, Bradley Cooper and Travis Scott joined us to celebrate the relaunch of our icon tonight. And if that wasn’t enough, the electric G was simultaneously revealed on the other side of the world in Beijing.”
Bettina Fetzer, Vice President Communications & Marketing Mercedes Benz AG
“The G-Class is a true legend, and we are thrilled to celebrate the highly anticipated debut of the all-electric model in Los Angeles. The G feels just as much at home here as it does in the great outdoors. Our new electric G-Class can do everything the G we know can do – and then some. It can wade deeper, and – with the show-stopping G-TURN – continues to amaze. With these new capabilities and unique characteristics, the electric G-Class marks an important chapter for Mercedes-Benz as leaders in electric drive.”
Michael Schiebe, CEO Mercedes-AMG and Head of Mercedes-Benz G-Class & Mercedes-Maybach Business Units
Iconic design meets unparalleled technology: The Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology
New off-road features enhance the impressive capability of the all-new electric G-Class. For example, with G-TURN1, the all-electric model can rotate on the spot. The vehicle performs up to two complete turns in the desired direction on unpaved or loose off-road surfaces. G-STEERING can significantly reduce the vehicle’s turning circle when driving off-road, and G-ROAR brings a unique sound experience to the all-electric model. The innovative drive concept includes four individually controlled electric motors, which contribute to the unique driving experience both on- and off-road.
The all-new electric G-Class combines the unmistakable look of the iconic model series with select design elements exclusive to electric vehicles. A number of unique elements set the all-electric model apart, including a slightly raised hood and flared rear wheel arches with air curtains. An optional black panel radiator grille is also available to further sharpen the striking electric exterior.
The all-new electric G-Class sets new standards off-road
The four individually controlled electric motors located near the wheels develop a combined output of 579 hp. Together with the selectable LOW RANGE off-road gear reduction, these enable unique driving characteristics and exclusive functions. This allows the G-TURN to rotate the vehicle on the spot on loose or unpaved surfaces. The G-STEERING function can deliver a significantly smaller turning circle when driving off-road. The intelligent off-road crawl function with three available settings supports off-road driving by maintaining optimum propulsion, allowing the driver to focus on navigating difficult terrain.
The all-new Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology has the ability to climb up to a 100 percent grade on suitable surfaces, offers high stability on lateral slopes of up to 35 degrees and a maximum fording depth of 33.5 inches – 5.9 inches more than the G 550 and AMG G 63. The LOW RANGE off-road gear reduction increases torque at the wheels during off-road driving. Off-road capability is further elevated with virtual differential locks through intelligent torque vectoring. G-ROAR brings a unique sound experience to the electric G-Class with an exclusive driving sound, an “aura” sound and a variety of “event” sounds.
The all-new G 580 with EQ Technology continues the tradition of the design icon
The all-new electric G-Class is immediately recognizable as part of the enduring model series. A number of design elements set the all-electric model apart from the G 550 and AMG G 63, including a slightly raised hood and flared rear wheel arches with air curtains. These contribute to the vehicle’s optimized aerodynamics, in combination with new A-pillar cladding and a spoiler lip on the roof edge. An optional black panel radiator grille is available to further sharpen the striking electric exterior.
Extensive standard equipment, additional features and digital off-road experience
The all-new Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology is equipped standard with the MBUX infotainment system (Mercedes-Benz User Experience), a multifunction steering wheel in Nappa leather, Burmester® 3D Surround Sound System, “transparent hood” function, KEYLESS-GO and 64-color ambient lighting, among many other features. The available redesigned off-road control center and new OFFROAD COCKPIT enhance the off-road driving experience with additional digital functions. For 2025 model year, the electric G-Class will be exclusively available in the U.S. in the EDITION ONE – a special edition with expanded standard features and unique design elements.
Electric drive
- Innovative individual-wheel drive concept delivers 579 hp and 859 lb-ft
- Virtual differential locks via torque vectoring
With four individually controlled electric motors close to the wheels, the all-new electric G-Class offers a unique driving experience both on- and off-road. It is the first series production vehicle from the Mercedes-Benz Group with individual-wheel drive. The four motors are integrated in the ladder frame – two in each housing at the front and rear axles. These are driven via short axle shafts, meaning the rear electric motors can also be bolted to the chassis. Each electric motor produces 145 hp, which deliver a combined 579 hp and 859 lb-ft of torque. In conjunction with ESP® and the central powertrain control (CPC), drive torque is intelligently distributed to optimize traction.
With its innovative drive concept, the Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 112 mph. With peak torque from the electric motors available from a standstill, the all-electric G-Class excels with impressive power and exceptional control. This is especially advantageous on steep inclines and loose surfaces.
Virtual differential locks
The all-new electric G-Class uses torque vectoring to generate virtual differential locks. This technology makes it possible to precisely meter torque to each individual wheel. As torque builds exactly where needed within fractions of a second, the electric G-Class holds a clean, confident line even on the most challenging terrain.
The virtual differential locks enable fully variable torque distribution among the individual wheels for traction with maximum flexibility without negatively impacting cornering. The all-new electric G-Class thus remains agile and maneuverable at all times, including when the virtual differential locks are active. Control of the virtual differential locks is fully automatic, eliminating the need to manually engage them via switches in the off-road control center.
Battery
- Lithium-ion battery in the all-new G 580 with EQ Technology consists of twelve cell modules
- Specially developed underride guard meets highest requirements
- ECO Assistant and Navigation with Electric Intelligence support electric driving
At the heart of the all-new electric G-Class is the high-voltage battery with a 116-kWh usable capacity. The two-tiered lithium-ion battery with 216 cells is installed in twelve cell modules between three cooling levels. It is integrated into the steel ladder frame to ensure a low center of gravity and also makes the entire vehicle significantly more rigid. The battery is housed in a torsion-resistant casing to protect it from water and dirt intrusion during off-road driving.
Charging components and functions
Both AC and DC charging are possible thanks to an 11-kW on-board AC charger and a DC fast charging system with a charging capacity of up to 200 kW. With DC fast charging, the high voltage battery is able to charge from 10 to 80 percent SoC (State of Charge) in approximately 32 minutes.
The all-new electric G-Class includes three charging programs – “Standard,” “Work” and “Home.” Users can set parameters such as departure time, climate control and maximum charge level. The “Home” and “Work” charging programs can be activated automatically based on location, which switch on as soon as the vehicle is parked at a saved charging location. Drivers are notified via MBUX that the charging program is active.
Energy recovery via recuperation
The recuperative drive system in the G 580 with EQ Technology is able to convert the vehicle’s kinetic energy into electrical energy when coasting and braking. Depending on the recuperation level selected, the electric motors function as generators and charge the high-voltage battery while driving. Recuperation when coasting starts as soon as the driver takes their foot off the accelerator pedal. The driver can select five different levels of recuperation using the steering wheel shift paddles:
- DAuto: the vehicle automatically adjusts the level of recuperation according to driving situation and traffic ahead. The ECO Assistant indicates in the driver display when the driver should take their foot off the accelerator pedal and the vehicle then selects the appropriate level of recuperation.
- D+: no recuperation – the vehicle coasts freely.
- D: normal recuperation
- D–: strong recuperation with increased deceleration during coasting
- D—: highest level of recuperation with maximum deceleration during coasting
Multi-stage high-voltage safety concept
Mercedes-Benz has developed a multi-stage high-voltage protection concept for its electric vehicles to prevent electric shocks and high-energy short circuits. It comprises eight essential elements for the safety of the battery and all components with a voltage level of more than 60 volts. This includes, for example, a self-monitoring high-voltage system that switches off automatically in the event of a serious collision.
Special underbody protection
Underbody protection is essential for an off-road vehicle. The all-new electric G-Class is no exception. The battery and other important components must have sufficient protection from stones, dust and sand. A high level of protection was the main focus during development of the skid plate, in addition to crash safety, aerodynamics and aeroacoustics.
The underbody protection is made from an intelligent material mix that includes carbon for increased rigidity compared to steel or aluminum. It also offers greater corrosion protection and significant weight saving. The robust underbody panel is one inch thick, attached to the ladder frame with more than 50 steel fasteners and weighs 127 lbs. A comparable steel component would be approximately three times heavier. A thin layer of stone-chip protection is also applied to the underside.
Support for electric driving: the ECO Assistant
The ECO Assistant analyzes navigation data along the expected route to help the driver adapt their driving style to maximize efficiency and recuperation. The system can recognize upcoming events such as a roundabout, sharp turn or change in speed limit, as well as traffic ahead. As the electric G-Class approaches an event, the ECO Assistant calculates the optimum speed. If an adjustment in driving style is necessary, it provides the driver with a visual prompt to lift off the accelerator pedal. The ideal recuperation level is automatically selected based on the driving situation.
Navigation with Electric Intelligence
Navigation with Electric Intelligence plans the fastest and most convenient route based on numerous factors, including charging stops. It calculates the energy required for journeys, taking into account topography, route, ambient temperature, speed as well as heating and cooling requirements. It also dynamically adapts to the traffic situation or changes in driving style. Drivers also have the option of customizing the planned route.
Navigation with Electric Intelligence also considers available charging stations, charging capacity and payment functions and calculates the estimated cost of a charging stop. The charging stops are planned with consideration for the overall travel time. Under certain circumstances, two short charging stops with a higher charging capacity can be more advantageous than charging once for a long period of time. In addition, Navigation with Electric Intelligence automatically adjusts the vehicle’s charging settings and optimizes them for fast charging along the route. Customers can add preferred charging stations to a route or exclude proposed charging stations. MBUX also displays whether the available battery capacity is sufficient to return to the starting point without charging.
If there is a risk of not reaching the destination or a charging station with the selected settings, the active range monitoring function recommends activation of ECO driving functions. It also calculates the exact driving speed required to reach the next charging station or destination as planned. In the “Range” menu, drivers can switch off various energy consuming functions to help maximize range and activate the ECO driving functions to support a more efficient driving style.
Suspension and drivetrain
- Modified ladder frame concept and newly developed solid rear axle
- ELECTRIC DYNAMIC SELECT: drive programs for a variety of driving situations
- Shiftable two-speed transmission with LOW RANGE off-road gear reduction
The all-new electric G-Class brings the off-road capability of the G-Class into the era of electric mobility. In certain areas, the G 580 with EQ Technology even surpasses the G 550 and AMG G 63 – in fording depth, for example. The ladder frame has been modified and reinforced for the electric model, retaining the combination of independent double wishbone front suspension and solid rear axle. The rear axle is a De Dion design and has been completely redeveloped. The electric motors are attached to the ladder frame and connected to the wheels via dual-joint driveshafts. The advantage of this design is camber does not change during compression. Double-universal-joint driveshafts transfer drive propulsion and incorporate slip joints to equalize the length.
The off-road specs speak for themselves:
- Ability to climb up to a 100 percent grade on suitable surfaces
- 9.8 inches of ground clearance between axles
- Maximum fording depth of 33.5 inches
- High stability on lateral slopes of up to 35 degrees
- 32-degree approach angle, 30.7-degree departure angle and 20.3-degree breakover angle
Adaptive adjustable dampers are fitted standard. The active dampers better compensate for uneven road surfaces or terrain for even more control during on- and off-road driving. With roll and pitch stabilization, the system continuously regulates the damper characteristics depending on the driving situation and reduces body movements. The components of the adaptive adjustable damping system are designed to withstand extreme off-road conditions such as surging water, mud, sand and dirt.
ELECTRIC DYNAMIC SELECT: additional drive program for increased efficiency
The driving experience of the all-new electric G-Class can be adjusted at the touch of a button. ELECTRIC DYNAMIC SELECT adjusts parameters for the motors, transmission, suspension, ESP® and steering depending on the drive program. Drivers can choose between the “Comfort,” “Sport” and “Individual” programs for on-road driving. The “Comfort” program is the default setting in which drive power is distributed primarily to just one axle to optimize efficiency. “Trail” and “Rock” programs tailored for off-road driving are also available and can be selected via the ELECTRIC DYNAMIC SELECT switch on the center console.
LOW RANGE off-road gear reduction
The all-new Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology features a selectable LOW RANGE off-road gear reduction as standard. The electric motor for each wheel is equipped with an individual transmission, which is centrally shifted and enables the four motors to operate independently. Each axle is fitted with two electric motors, two transmissions and a double inverter in a shared housing. This configuration facilitates the off-road gear reduction and ensures maximum torque and consistent temperature management.
In the “Rock” drive program, drivers can activate LOW RANGE via the off-road control center. This activates a gear reduction ratio of 2:1, which increases the drive torque. Handling and response characteristics are then optimized for off-road excursions on rugged terrain, including steep ascents and descents. Top speed is restricted to 53 mph. The intelligent off-road crawl function is also always active when LOW RANGE is engaged.
Exclusive off-road functions, unique sound experience and digital off-road experience
- G-TURN, G-STEERING and intelligent off-road crawl function: advanced drive concept and shiftable transmissions enable unique driving characteristics
- G-ROAR: sound experience for the all-new electric G-Class
- New OFFROAD COCKPIT and “transparent hood” function for a digital off-road experience
The innovative drive concept in the all-new electric G-Class enables exclusive functions for off-road driving.
Exclusively for the all-new electric G-Class: G-TURN, G-STEERING and intelligent off-road crawl function
With G-TURN1, the electric G-Class can rotate on the spot. The vehicle performs up to two complete turns in the desired direction on unpaved or loose off-road surfaces. This not only looks spectacular but can also be helpful when driving off-road – for example, if an obstacle ahead makes it impossible to continue forward. The four independently driven wheels can rotate the vehicle to the left or right as required. To accomplish this, the wheels on the right and left side of the vehicle turn in opposite directions. To start the function, the vehicle must be stationary on a level surface with the doors closed, front wheels positioned straight-ahead and brake pedal depressed. In addition, the “D” transmission setting must be engaged, “Rock” drive program selected and LOW RANGE off-road gear reduction engaged. Only then can drivers activate the function using the corresponding button on the off-road control center. The desired direction of rotation is selected by pulling and holding the left or right steering wheel shift paddle. To start the G-TURN, the driver must then hold the steering wheel, release the brake pedal and press the accelerator pedal. After two complete revolutions, G-TURN is automatically deactivated. Drivers can also cancel the function manually at any time by releasing the steering wheel shift paddle or lifting their foot off the accelerator pedal.
G-STEERING can significantly reduce the turning circle of the G 580 with EQ Technology when driving off-road1. This is achieved through targeted control of the drive torque at each individual wheel, with the vehicle turning around the inside rear wheel. The function can thus eliminate the need for multi-point turns in certain situations – for example in sharp bends or other tight spaces. Drivers can activate G-STEERING by pressing the corresponding button on the off-road control center when the “D” transmission setting is engaged, “Rock” drive program is selected and LOW RANGE off-road gear reduction is switched on. This function is active up to 15 mph.
The intelligent off-road crawl function2 provides drivers with additional support off-road. It ensures ideal propulsion even on loose surfaces, maintaining a pre-set speed – and thus functions in a manner similar to cruise control, but for off-road driving. This allows drivers to concentrate on the optimum driving line and any obstacles without having to simultaneously balance brake and accelerator input. The function can be overridden by the driver at any time through application of the brake or accelerator pedal.
The intelligent off-road crawl function is always active when the LOW RANGE off-road gear reduction is engaged. Drivers can select the target speed in three levels using the steering wheel shift paddles. The current status is shown on the driver display. The following crawl speeds are available:
- Slow crawl: the vehicle maintains a speed of approximately 1 mph uphill, downhill or on level terrain.
- Variable crawl: the vehicle maintains walking speed on uphill and level terrain. On 10-20 percent downhill grades, drivers can use the accelerator pedal to increase the target speed to approximately 9 mph and use the brake pedal to again reduce it to walking speed.
- Fast crawl: the vehicle maintains a speed of approximately 5 mph on uphill and level terrain. Downhill, the intelligent off-road crawl function slows the vehicle via recuperation depending on the grade, but the vehicle is not limited to a target speed.
G-ROAR: the sound of the all-new electric G-Class
G-ROAR brings a unique sound experience to the Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology. Inspired by the G-Class model family’s emotional combustion engine sounds, it provides an impressive acoustic accompaniment to the acceleration of the electric G-Class. Deep bass and sonorous tones deliberately set it apart from the sound experience of other all-electric models from Mercedes-Benz. Drivers can influence the sound with their choice of ELECTRIC DYNAMIC SELECT drive program. While it’s rather restrained in “Comfort,” for example, it develops a powerful and emotional sound in “Sport.”
G-ROAR also includes an “aura” sound and a variety of “event” sounds. The “aura” sound can already be heard around the vehicle when drivers approach the electric G-Class and unlock the doors. The “event” sounds can be heard when closing the vehicle door after ingress, switching the motors on and off, and upon opening the door at the end of a journey. After exiting the vehicle, the “aura” sound can be heard again – for up to one minute, or until the vehicle is locked. G-ROAR also provides acoustic feedback to the start of the charging process.
New OFFROAD COCKPIT
Drivers can access the new OFFROAD COCKPIT directly via the off-road control center. An overview of the most relevant information for off-road driving as well as functions to support off-road driving are shown on the driver and multimedia displays. Content is displayed in various tiles, which can be changed using the direction arrows or swiping. There are also buttons for quick access to certain vehicle functions and information relevant for off-road driving. These include the artificial horizon, compass, altitude, steering angle, torque as well as tire pressure and temperature.
“Transparent hood” function
In conjunction with the 360-degree camera, the “transparent hood” function provides a virtual view of under the front of the vehicle to enable the driver to better recognize obstacles in the vehicle’s path. The function also helps drivers to properly assess crests, embankments and hollows that may no longer be visible through the windshield, if the angle is too steep. The “transparent hood” can be conveniently activated via a button on the off-road control center or via the off-road menu in the central multimedia display.