Mercedes-Benz G-Class Goes Electric: The G 580 with EQ Technology

The automotive world held its collective breath when Mercedes-Benz announced it would electrify its most iconic off-roader. The G-Wagon is known for its boxy shape, door-closing “clack,” and thirsty V8 engines. With the introduction of the Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology (formerly the EQG concept), the brand claims to have improved upon the legend. Here is how the electric G-Class handles mountains, water, and the transition to battery power.

The Powertrain: Four Motors, Massive Torque

The most significant change in the electric G-Class is the propulsion system. Unlike standard EVs that use one or two motors, the G 580 employs four individually controlled electric motors—one located near each wheel. This layout allows for precise torque vectoring that mechanical differentials simply cannot match.

The combined output of these four motors is staggering. The vehicle produces 579 horsepower and a massive 859 lb-ft of torque. Because electric motors provide instant torque, the G 580 launches from 0 to 60 mph in roughly 4.6 seconds. This makes it faster than the standard gas-powered G 550 and competitive with the AMG variants.

Battery and Range

Powering this system is a high-voltage lithium-ion battery with a 116 kWh usable capacity. While official EPA range estimates are pending, European WLTP testing suggests a range between 240 and 290 miles. In real-world driving, especially with the aerodynamic profile of a brick, you should expect closer to 240 miles.

Mercedes integrated the battery directly into the ladder frame chassis. This lowers the center of gravity considerably compared to the combustion models, which improves stability on steep side slopes.

Can It Still Wade Through Water?

The snippet specifically asks if the electric G-Wagon can handle water. The answer is not just “yes,” but “better than the gas version.”

One of the primary concerns with EVs is mixing electricity and water. However, Mercedes has hermetically sealed the battery pack and motors. Because the electric G-Class does not need an air intake for an engine, it can go deeper than its internal combustion siblings.

  • Electric G 580 Wading Depth: 33.5 inches (850 mm)
  • Gas G-Class Wading Depth: 27.6 inches (700 mm)

The electric model offers nearly 6 inches of additional wading capability. To protect the battery from rocks and impacts while submerged or climbing, the underbody is shielded by a 1-inch thick mix of carbon and other composite materials. This shield is attached with 50 steel fasteners and is designed to withstand the entire weight of the vehicle dropping onto a rock.

Climbing Mountains: Off-Road Specs

The G 580 retains the solid rear axle and independent front suspension setup, but the rear axle is a De Dion design to accommodate the electric motors. The result is a vehicle that maintains the off-road geometry enthusiasts require.

Key Off-Road Statistics:

  • Gradeability: Up to 100% (45-degree slopes) on suitable surfaces.
  • Ground Clearance: 9.8 inches (between the axles).
  • Approach Angle: 32 degrees.
  • Departure Angle: 30.7 degrees.
  • Breakover Angle: 20.3 degrees.

Mercedes also includes a “Low Range” off-road gear reduction simulation. By using a 2:1 reduction ratio in the transmission steps at each motor, the G 580 creates the crawling power needed for extreme rock climbing.

The G-Turn and G-Steering

The advantage of having four independent motors extends beyond traction. It allows for maneuvers that are physically impossible for a gas car.

The G-Turn

This feature, often called a “tank turn,” allows the vehicle to rotate 360 degrees in place on loose surfaces like dirt or gravel. The motors on the left side spin wheels in one direction while the right side spins them in the opposite direction. This is controlled via paddle shifters and is intended for getting out of tight trails (or showing off).

G-Steering

This function significantly reduces the turning circle off-road. It controls the drive torque and braking force on individual wheels to pivot the vehicle around the inside rear wheel. If you are navigating a tight switchback on a mountain trail, this feature allows the nose of the car to swing around much sharper than standard steering geometry allows.

Design and Aerodynamics

Visually, the G 580 looks almost identical to the G-Class lineage dating back to 1979. However, subtle changes were necessary to improve aerodynamic efficiency and squeeze out more range.

  • Raised Hood: The hood is slightly higher to smooth airflow over the windshield.
  • Air Curtains: Small vents in the rear wheel arches help streamline air passage.
  • A-Pillar Trim: New cladding on the windshield pillars reduces wind noise and drag.
  • Grille: A closed-panel radiator grille is available (often with an illuminated border), though a standard-look grille is also an option.

Despite these changes, the drag coefficient is still high compared to a sedan, but improved over previous G-Wagons.

Pricing and Availability

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology is a premium luxury item. The launch model, known as the Edition One, comes fully loaded with unique MANUFAKTUR paint options, blue carbon fiber trim, and specific badging.

  • Starting Price: Approximately $152,000 for the base model.
  • Edition One Price: Expected to reach $180,000 or higher depending on dealer markups and final options.

The vehicle is expected to arrive in US dealerships in the second half of 2024 as a 2025 model.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the electric G-Class have differential locks? It does not have mechanical differential locks. Instead, it uses “virtual” differential locks. Because each motor can be controlled instantly, the computer simulates the effect of locking diffs perfectly by ensuring wheels on the same axle spin at the exact same speed when traction is lost.

How do I charge the G 580? The vehicle supports DC fast charging at up to 200 kW. This allows you to charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 32 minutes. It also has an 11 kW onboard charger for Level 2 home charging.

Is it called the EQG or the G 580? During development, it was called the EQG concept. However, for the production release, Mercedes-Benz officially named it the G 580 with EQ Technology. It falls under the G-Class umbrella rather than being a separate “EQ” model.

Does it sound like an electric car? It can if you want it to. Mercedes includes “G-ROAR,” a sound experience that mimics the emotional exhaust notes of a V8 engine during acceleration. It also provides specific “aura” sounds when you unlock or turn off the vehicle.