The G580: Mercedes-Benz’s Electric Evolution
With more teasers than the 1965 Mustang, the Mercedes-Benz G580 has tantalized enthusiasts. From heart-racing off-road adventures to showcasing its 360-degree “tank turn” at CES in Las Vegas, this SUV has left an indelible mark. Riding along as it gracefully drifted across Arctic ice only added to the anticipation.
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Mercedes-Benz
Yet, Mercedes-Benz treads a fine line of pride and apprehension with the G580 EQ Technology, its maiden venture into the all-electric G-Class SUV realm. Marrying an iconic and lucrative vehicle with cutting-edge electric propulsion raises stakes. Will this be a pinnacle in the 45-year legacy of the Mercedes off-roader, or a disappointing misstep?
The definitive answer awaits as we gear up to test drive the electric G580 EQ Technology in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, Mercedes divulges full technical specifications, offering a peek into what could be the most captivating launch of the year. Let’s delve into the details of this intriguing vehicle. And let’s do away with the cumbersome name – henceforth, it’s simply the G580, agreed?
A G EV That Stays True to Its Roots
“The G must be a G,” asserts Manuel Urstöger, the engineer steering the G580’s powertrain development. Retaining the essence of the G-Class was paramount. It had to conquer rugged terrain, navigate challenging landscapes, and maintain its legendary versatility without compromise.
This necessitated all-wheel drive, naturally. But Urstöger’s team pushed further, opting for a motor to power each wheel through individual two-speed transmissions for unparalleled control and capability.
Preserving the G-Class aesthetic was equally crucial. Hence, every component of the electric powertrain snugly fits within the existing hardware confines of the W463 G-Class. The robust ladder frame proved instrumental.
Power emanates from four 145-hp electric motors affixed to the ladder frame, collectively delivering a robust system output of 579 hp and a staggering 859 lb-ft of torque. Driving these motors is a two-tier, 216-cell lithium-ion battery boasting a usable capacity of 116 kWh. This formidable combination propels the 6,600-pound G580 from 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds, topping out at an electronically restricted 112 mph, with an anticipated EPA-rated range of approximately 240 miles per charge.
Fast charging capabilities are impressive, with the battery accommodating rates of up to 200 kW on a DC fast charger, replenishing from 10 percent to 80 percent charge in just 32 minutes.
In the realm of off-roading, durability is paramount. Despite acknowledging that most G-Class owners seldom venture off-road, engineers fortified the battery with a torsion-resistant casing, ensuring waterproofing and enabling the G580 to wade through depths of up to 33.5 inches – 5.9 inches deeper than its internal-combustion counterparts manage sans snorkel.
Further safeguarding the battery is a robust inch-thick carbon-composite skidplate, affixed to the frame by 50 steel screws. Weighing in at 127 pounds, it offers unparalleled protection, significantly lighter than a comparable steel alternative.
The G580 embodies the G-Class ethos while embracing a sustainable, electrified future – a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to innovation without compromise.
