Amit Saraswat 
Mercedes-Benz electrifies its iconic name plate — the G-Class — and the all-electric model has dubbed the G580 with EQ technology. Needless to say, the it boasts an all-wheel drivetrain that comes courtesy of four electric motors, each mounted near every wheel. The motors are incorporated within the ladder-frame chassis and while it does not have locking differentials, it can electronically manage the torque delivery via torque vectoring.
All its four motors combined offer a power output of 587PS and torque output of 1,164Nm. Despite having more power than the G63 AMG, the G580 is 0.4 seconds slower than its performance sibling, touching 100kmph in 4.7 seconds. The motors draw power from a 116kWh battery pack that offers a claimed range of 473 km on a single charge. The range is not impressive but considering its box-like shape, the low range seems somewhat justified.
The new 116kWh battery pack consists of 216 cells that have been installed in 12 cell modules and three cooling levels. The battery pack is also protected with strong materials, avoiding any damage from underbody collisions. On the charging front, the new G580 offers three charging programs — standard, work and home — which can be determined by location and parameters like departure time, climate control and maximum charge level can be set.
Furthermore, the G580 offers a range of charging options, including 11kW AC and 200kW DC fast charging options. The faux wheel cover at the rear incorporates the wall socket charger of the G580 for easy access.
On the design front, the all-electric G-Class remains identical to its gasoline-powered iterations. It continues to boast the iconic silhouette along with round headlights and turn indicators near the bonnet. However, exterior details like a flat and illuminated radiator grille sets it apart from the rest of the G-Class range. On the inside, it features a similar interior layout, albeit with a few changes.
Its features include updated MBUX infotainment system, ambient lighting, multi-spoke steering wheel with capacitive buttons, keyless entry and go, Burmester sound system, surround view camera with transparent bonnet and temperature-controlled cup holders. The all-electric G-Class also features exclusive features such as the G-turn, which enables the SUV to turn 360-degrees on the same spot on loose or unpaved surface; and intelligent off-road crawl function.
The all-new Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology will be available at launch starting at EUR 1,42,621 whereas the prices for the EDITION ONE start at EUR 1,92,524. Mercedes-Benz is yet to reveal the delivery timelines for the new electric offroader.
