The Mercedes-Benz G-Class has stood as a symbol of rugged luxury and off-road dominance. Now, in a bold leap into the future, Mercedes has electrified this icon — introducing the Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology, the all-electric G-Class that retains the heart of a legend while embracing the soul of sustainability.
A New Chapter for a Timeless Design
At first glance, the G 580 EV doesn’t stray far from the boxy, muscular design that has made the G-Class instantly recognizable. That’s intentional. Mercedes-Benz chose evolution over revolution, maintaining the classic silhouette while integrating subtle cues that signal its electric identity: a closed-off grille, blue-tinted accents, and aerodynamic tweaks for improved efficiency.
But under that familiar exterior lies an entirely new beast.
Four Motors, True 4×4
Unlike many electric SUVs, the G 580 is not simply an existing platform with an electric drivetrain. It’s been engineered from the ground up to retain the G-Wagen’s legendary off-road capability. The G 580 EV features four electric motors — one for each wheel — delivering a combined output of 579 horsepower and over 850 Nm of torque.
This quad-motor setup allows for precise torque vectoring and independent wheel control. It can even perform a “G-Turn,” allowing the vehicle to spin in place — an off-road maneuver that highlights just how much control electric motors offer compared to traditional differentials.
Battery and Range
The G 580 is equipped with a 116 kWh lithium-ion battery, mounted low within the ladder frame. Mercedes estimates a WLTP range of up to 470 km (292 miles) on a single charge, depending on driving conditions. And thanks to DC fast-charging support (up to 200 kW), the battery can be topped up from 10% to 80% in around 30 minutes.
Water fording? The EV version can go through up to 850 mm of water — even more than its combustion predecessor.
Technology Meets Tradition
Inside, the G 580 EV is a luxury lounge infused with the latest tech. The familiar dashboard layout gets updated with the MBUX infotainment system, digital displays, and EV-specific features like energy flow visualization, range optimization, and terrain analysis tools. The electric G also comes with an available Burmester 3D surround sound system, ambient lighting, and a suite of advanced driver assistance features.
Sustainability Without Sacrificing Soul
What makes the G 580 special is that it doesn’t compromise. It’s still hand-built in Graz, Austria. It’s still imposing, still luxurious, still ready to scale a mountain or roll through the city with style — but now, it does so without emissions.
This isn’t just an electric SUV. It’s a reimagining of an icon.
Final Thoughts
The Mercedes-Benz G 580 EV is more than just a luxury off-roader gone green. It represents a major milestone in automotive evolution — proof that electrification doesn’t mean the end of character, capability, or heritage. For purists and pioneers alike, the G 580 offers the best of both worlds.
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