The iconic G Wagon is going electric! Mercedes-Benz India has announced their first electric G-Class, officially named the G 580 with EQ Technology, will debut in India on January 9, 2025. This much-anticipated model has already caught attention worldwide, and now Indian fans can finally see it in action. Mercedes might also reveal the price of this electric SUV on the same day.
The G 580 was showcased as a concept at the Bharat Mobility Show, earlier this year. Since then, it has launched globally in mid-2024, and the buzz around this electric version has only grown louder. Mercedes claims that this new electric G Wagon isn't just a match for the regular fuel-powered G-Class — it's even better off-road.
Familiar Yet Futuristic Design
At first glance, the G 580 looks almost identical to the diesel-powered G 450d. However, there are some subtle changes. The grille has been slightly reworked, and you’ll spot small EQ badges that highlight its electric identity. Mercedes has tweaked the A-pillar and added a small spoiler lip on the roof, with the aim to improve aerodynamics.
One of the significant changes is the sculpted bonnet, which helps reduce wind resistance. Thanks to these tweaks, the G 580 has a drag coefficient of 0.44, a slight improvement from the G 450d’s 0.48. Even the spare wheel holder at the back can be swapped for a charging cable holder, keeping style and function in harmony.
Inside the cabin, everything feels familiar if you know the regular G-Class. The layout remains unchanged, but there are a few new buttons and controls specific to its electric features.
Power and Performance: A Beast Off the Road
Under the hood — or rather, within the chassis — the G 580 packs a serious punch. This electric SUV uses four electric motors, one for each wheel, giving it incredible control and power. Each motor produces 147 horsepower, adding up to a total of 587 horsepower. Even more impressive is the torque, which hits a staggering 1,165 Nm.
The G 580 isn’t just about raw power; it’s about splendid performance. In just under 5 seconds, it can go from 0 to 100 km/h. The top speed is 180 km/h, but where the G 580 really shines is off the beaten path.
The SUV’s 116 kWh battery, shared with Mercedes’ EQS model, can be charged quickly — up to 200 kW fast-charging speeds. On a full charge, Mercedes claims the G 580 can travel up to 470 km. This clearly states that you can now tackle long off-road adventures without worrying about running out of juice.
Built for Tough Terrain
Mercedes hasn’t compromised the G Wagon’s legendary off-road abilities. The G 580 comes with an independent front suspension and a rigid rear axle where the electric drive unit is integrated.
Instead of mechanical differential locks, it uses virtual ones for smarter power distribution. This helps the SUV adjust torque to each wheel for better control.
The G 580 also offers some unique features to make off-roading even more exciting. One of these is the “G-Turn” function, which lets the SUV spin a full 720 degrees on the spot. Then there’s “G-Steering,” which helps the car turn tighter by pivoting around a wheel. There’s even a slow-crawl function that can move the vehicle at speeds as low as 2 km/h, perfect for tricky terrains.
Plus, the G 580 can wade through water up to 850 mm deep — which is 100 mm more than the regular G-Class. This means rivers, flooded roads, and muddy paths are no challenge for this electric beast.
What About Other Mercedes Models?
While the G 580 is getting all the attention, Mercedes has made it clear that some of their other popular models are not getting updates in India next year. The facelifts for the S-Class, GLE, and GLS SUVs will launch in international markets, however these updates won’t make their way to India in 2025. The current versions of these cars, which were refreshed in 2024, will continue to be sold in India for another year.
The Future of Luxury SUVs
Mercedes’ decision to launch the electric G 580 in India marks a big step in the luxury electric SUV market. The G Wagon has always been a symbol of rugged style and top-tier performance, and now, with electric power, it’s moving into the future while staying true to its roots.
For those who love off-roading and want to do it in an eco-friendly way, the G 580 offers the best of both worlds. It’s powerful, capable, and stylish — everything you’d expect from a G-Class, but with zero emissions.
In summary, Mark your calendars for January 9, 2025. That’s when the electric G Wagon officially arrived in India, ready to set a new standard for electric off-roaders. Whether you’re a long-time G-Class fan or new to the world of luxury SUVs, the G 580 with EQ Technology is an exciting glimpse into the future of off-road driving.
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