Back in October 2017, Mercedes bid farewell to the V12-powered G-Class with the release of the G65 Final Edition. Now, fast forward to June 2023, and it’s time for the G500 V8 Final Edition to mark the end of the road for the non-AMG eight-cylinder model. Despite the continued availability of the G63, it seems that the downsizing bug has also caught up with the legendary off-roader. By 2024, we can expect a G-Class variant that ditches the combustion engine altogether. The electric G-Class made its prototype debut at the IAA Munich, bringing us closer to its official launch.
After first unveiling the Concept EQG at the same event two years ago, Mercedes is now showcasing a near-production prototype of the all-electric SUV. Attendees at the IAA have the opportunity to get a sneak peek at the electric G-Class “months before its world premiere next year,” according to an official statement from Mercedes. While additional details are scarce, we do know that the conventionally powered G-Class will still be available alongside the new electric version.
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Mercedes has chosen to remain tight-lipped about the technical specifications of the EQG. However, we can expect the electric SUV to feature a quad-motor setup and the possibility of an optional high-density battery pack utilizing advanced silicon anode chemistry. This new battery technology could boost energy density by 20 to 40 percent, achieving an impressive 800 Wh/l at the cell level and providing a significant increase in range. However, the longer-range EQG variant is not expected until 2025, approximately a year after the standard electric version’s launch.
Interestingly, the EQG will not be the first electric Mercedes to boast four motors. The SLS AMG Electric Drive already introduced this quad-motor setup back in 2012. Due to its boxy shape and less-than-ideal drag coefficient, the all-electric SUV is estimated to weigh around 6,600 pounds (3,000 kilograms) or possibly even more. This is where the advanced battery technology becomes crucial in ensuring a decent range for the vehicle.
The EQG will be built on a modified version of the steel ladder-frame chassis used in the gasoline/diesel G-Class (W463). Mercedes has mentioned that the new model will feature a double-wishbone front suspension and trailing arm rear suspension. The battery will be protected by a steel case wrapped in a carbon fiber-reinforced polymer compound to ensure durability during off-road adventures and water crossings.
In addition to the standard driving modes (Eco, Comfort, Sport), the EQG will offer Trail, Rock, and Sand modes, along with a creeper mode for off-roading at a pre-established speed. Another impressive feature is the G-Turn, allowing for a 360-degree tank-like turn after selecting the desired direction using the shift paddles.
Production of the EQG will take place alongside the conventional G-Class at the Magna Steyr factory in Graz, Austria. There have been rumors that the electric G-Class could drop the “EQ” branding, but no official confirmation has been provided yet.
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