The new electric Mercedes-Benz G-Class is an "uncompromising" machine, and the company claims that it outperforms its internal combustion engine models when driving off-road. The 4×4 will be known as the EQG during its development and will be known as the G580 with EQ technology after mass production, and the new car will be named:
G 580 with EQ Technology, is the first Mercedes-Benz electric car to no longer bear the EQ name. The lengthy moniker represents a shift in Mercedes' electric vehicle naming strategy and also shows how the G580 evolved into a G-Class car that happens to be battery-powered.
The design of the G580 is almost identical to the recently updated G450d, but with subtle modifications to the engine grille and discrete EQ badging that set it apart. But to maximize aerodynamic efficiency, we did a lot of work, including a new A-pillar design and a new spoiler lip at the front of the roof. The G580 also features an all-new aerodynamically styling bonnet with a drag coefficient of 0.44, which is lower than the 0.48Cd of the latest G450d and the 0.53Cd of the previous generation G.
The all-new electric G-Class stays true to the model's character, retaining its angular silhouette, including all the iconic elements. Like the traditional power version, its bodywork is built on a ladder frame. This was modified and strengthened by the development team to integrate the electric drive. The combination of a double wishbone independent front suspension and a newly developed rigid rear axle was also retained. "For more than 45 years, the G-Class has always used the most modern drive technology. So it's only fitting that the innovation-driven concept with four independently controlled electric motors once again takes the legendary performance of our off-road logo to the next level. It retains even the familiar angular silhouette and stays true to the character of our beloved "Geländewagen". Markus Schäfer, Member of the Management Board and Chief Technology Officer of the Mercedes-Benz Group.
Electric drive
The all-new electric G-Class features four independently controlled electric motors near the wheels, providing unique driving characteristics both on- and off-road. It is the Mercedes-Benz Group's first mass-produced independent wheel-drive car. Four motors are integrated in the ladder frame – two in each housing for the front and rear axles. They are driven by a short half-shaft, which means that the rear motor can also be bolted to the chassis. Each electric motor has a peak output of 108 kW, for a total maximum total output of 432 kW. The maximum total torque is 1,164 Nm. In conjunction with ESP and Central Powertrain Control (CPC), torque is always delivered exactly where traction is needed in the new electric G-Class.
With its innovative drive concept, the new Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ technology accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.7 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 180 km/h. Because the electric motor can provide maximum torque at a standstill, this all-electric dirt bike has tremendous traction and superior controllability. This proved advantageous both on steep slopes and on soft surfaces.
battery
It's the heart of every electric car – the high-voltage battery. In the all-new electric G-Class, a two-layer lithium-ion battery with 216 batteries is installed in 12 battery modules between three cooling levels. The battery is integrated in a ladder frame made of steel up to four millimeters thick. This ensures a low center of gravity and significantly increases the rigidity of the entire vehicle.
To prevent water and dust intrusion, the battery is housed in a torsion-resistant housing. This means that the all-new electric G-Class is also perfect for ambitious off-road missions. The usable capacity of the battery is 116 kWh. According to WLTP, this provides ample energy for the new Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ technology, which has a range of up to 473 km (294 miles).
charge
The new electric G-Class is capable of charging with alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC). When charging with alternating current, such as in a wall box, the on-board charger converts the current in the vehicle. It has a maximum charging capacity of up to 11kW. In order to achieve DC fast charging, the on-board DC fast charging system has a charging capacity of up to 200 kW. In this case, it takes about 32 minutes to charge from 10% SoC (state of charge) to 80%.
The new electric G-Class has three charging modes: "Standard", "Work" or "Home". The user can set parameters such as departure time, climate control, and maximum charge level. The "Home" and "Work" charging programs can be activated depending on the location. As soon as the vehicle is parked at the stored charging location, they automatically turn on. Users will be informed of this in MBUX.
Suspension and transmission
The all-new electric G-Class brings the off-road qualities of the G-Class into the era of electric mobility. In some respects, the electric version even surpasses traditional power models, such as wading depth. The electric model has been modified and reinforced with a ladder frame, retaining the combination of a double wishbone independent front suspension and a rigid rear axle. The rear axle was designed by De Dion and completely redeveloped. The electric motor is mounted on a ladder frame and is connected to the wheels by a double articulated shaft. The advantage of this is that the camber does not change during compression. The twin cardan drive shafts transmit propulsion and combine with the slip joints to balance the length.
The new electric G-Class comes standard with the same adaptive adjustable damping as the conventional power model. Active dampers compensate for uneven ground better than passive dampers. This ensures more off-road confidence. With roll and pitch stabilization, the system continuously adjusts the damper characteristics and reduces body movement according to the driving situation. The components of the adaptive adjustable damping system are designed to withstand extreme conditions such as rough currents, wading, gravel, and dirt.
Low gear: Off-road gear reduction in the all-new electric G-Class
The new Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ technology has a switchable low-range off-road gear reducer. Each motor near the wheels has its own gearbox, which uses central shifting. This ensures the independence of the motor. There are two electric motors on each shaft, their gearboxes and dual inverters in a common housing. This configuration favors the off-road reduction ratio, allowing the electric off-road vehicle to be used on difficult terrain. It ensures maximum torque and smooth temperature management. HIGH RANGE ROAD SETTINGS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE, GUARANTEEING MAXIMUM RANGE.
In the "Rock" driving program, the driver can activate the low-grade off-road gear reduction via a switch in the off-road control unit. This activates the reduction ratio (2:1), which increases the drive torque. Handling and response characteristics are then optimized for powerful travel on difficult terrain with steep and downhill slopes unpaved. The maximum speed limit is 85 km/h. The intelligent off-road crawling function is automatically turned on and always active.
Interior: Typical G-Class design, extensive standard equipment
The interior of the new electric G-Class combines impressive quality with a classic design language. Square-sided vents and passenger handlebars carry the typical G-Class logo. For the EDITION ONE, the decorative elements are made of blue carbon fiber. The latest generation multifunction steering wheel with touch control panel comes standard with nappa leather. Ambient lighting and leather upholstery are also part of the standard equipment.
MBUX infotainment system: Intuitive operation, adaptive software and voice assistant with conversational capabilities
The all-new electric G-Class is equipped with an MBUX infotainment system, including standard 12.3-inch drivers and a media display with touch controls. The display and operating concept uses adaptive software to provide individual recommendations for numerous infotainment, comfort and vehicle functions. Smartphone integration via Android Auto or Apple CarPlay enables occupants to take full advantage of their phone's capabilities. They also enjoy the benefits of digital broadcasting with MBUX (DAB+). The USB-C port can be used to connect to other mobile devices.
MBUX also offers voice assistants that are capable of conversing and learning. Now there's no need to say "Hey Mercedes" to trigger certain actions. The voice assistant also has around 20 G-level specific voice commands. MBUX augmented reality navigation can help drivers find their way even in complex traffic situations. This allows them to reach their destination quickly, safely, and stress-free. To do this, the system overlays graphical navigation and traffic information onto a real-time image on a media display. It also supports traffic lights by displaying the current traffic light color, helping drivers see signals when visibility is limited.