Tank Turns and Trails - Mercedes G580 is The New Electric G-Wagon
Mercedes just confirmed it’ll unveil its long-awaited electric G-Class on March 24 in the beautiful city of Beijing, out of all places. Or should I say EQG? Or wait, maybe the new badge is the G580 with EQ Technology? Someone in marketing got bored, apparently… or maybe they just couldn't bear to fully let go of that iconic 'G' branding.
Let's face it, an electric G-Class sounds like a contradiction. It's like trying to turn a lumberjack into a vegan yoga instructor. Sure, it might be possible, but is it really a good idea? Well, the folks in Stuttgart seem to think so, claiming their creation will pirouette on a dime thanks to those crazy tank turns, scramble up mountains like a mechanical billy goat, and… consume electricity at a rate that would make any self-respecting Tesla blush.
Turns out you won't find a frunk under there, but you will get four electric motors – one driving each wheel. That's more motors than I had Hot Wheels as a kid, and honestly, probably more off-road sophistication too. Mercedes is being coy about power figures, but let's be honest – when has a G-Class ever been about subtlety? They're definitely hinting at a range-topping, AMG-badged brute that might even go toe-to-toe with that rumbling V8 in the G63. That'll be a sight to behold.
Now, about that mammoth battery pack… it's supposed to have around 100kWh of juice, but the range is where eyebrows will raise. Mercedes claims a paltry 200 to 220 miles (321 – 354 km) on a full charge. Let's just say that won't get you from LA to Vegas without some serious charger-hopping anxiety. Suddenly, those old, gas-guzzling Gs sound a bit more appealing for long hauls, don't they?
Here's where things get interesting. Forget about differential locks; the EQG's electric motors are basically off-road wizards. Remember that crazy Rivian tank turn thing? The G can do that too, making parking a breeze (if you're brave enough to parallel park something the size of a small cabin). They're also claiming it'll crawl, climb, and splash with the best of the internal combustion Gs, promising the same legendary off-road prowess in a shiny new electric package.
Now, about that weight. 3500 kg (7716 lbs)? Yikes. I'm no physicist, but even with all those fancy electric tricks, I'm wondering how nimble this behemoth will feel off-road. Imagine the trail scars it's going to leave behind! Plus, while we're on the subject of practicality, don't even ask about towing. It's a range-killer for anything electric, and it seems the EQG won't be an exception.
Look, the G-Class was never the most sensible choice. It's a beautiful, boxy brick that somehow became desirable, a testament to timeless design and go-anywhere cachet. The electric version promises to keep that spirit alive, even if the range is downright laughable by modern EV standards.
Will it be as capable as the legend? Is it a "real" G? Time (and some epic trail videos) will tell. Here's hoping it doesn't trade its legendary character for too many electrons. Until then, I'll be keeping an eye out, and a healthy dose of skepticism close at hand – but always with a grin on my face. After all, a G-Class, electric or not, is guaranteed to be entertaining.
Yours truly,
Captain Electro
