Electric Vehicle: Mercedes-Benz G-Class adaptation with an electric powertrain
The iconic Mercedes-Benz G-Class, known for its round headlights, exposed spare wheel, and angular silhouette, continues to be a direct descendant of the first G-Model, despite the introduction of an electric or internal combustion engine variant. However, the electric G-Class with EQ Technology has faced a disappointing sales performance compared to its gasoline and diesel counterparts.
In the first half of 2025, Mercedes sold only 75,700 electric vehicles, a 19% drop and just 8.5% of their total sales. This poor EV performance, coupled with consumers' preference for traditional or hybrid versions of the G-Class due to pricing, range, and traditional off-road expectations, has contributed to the electric G-Class's lacklustre sales.
The high price of the electric G 580, starting at €142,621.50 in Germany, may be a significant factor. In contrast, the gasoline and diesel engine versions offer proven performance and range at a slightly lower cost.
Another challenge is the expectation of traditional off-road capability. The G-Class is renowned for ruggedness, durability, and off-road prowess. Some buyers are concerned that fully electric versions might compromise these aspects due to battery weight, limited range in off-road settings, or charging infrastructure in remote areas.
The market trend towards electric vehicles and competition within the premium electric SUV segment also pose challenges for Mercedes. Premium segment sales are declining, and BMW currently leads in both total and performance model sales.
Despite these challenges, the electric G-Class is technologically impressive and built to luxurious and off-road standards. It features four wheel-hub motors that can be controlled individually, allowing it to spin on the spot like a tank. The batteries are integrated into a ladder frame, maintaining the model's rigid, boxy character.
In off-road conditions, the electric G-Class is expected to perform as well as or better than its internal combustion engine counterparts. However, it has a curb weight of nearly 3.1 tons, with a payload capacity of only 415 kilograms and no trailer hitch.
The electric G-Class boasts an electric range of up to 473 kilometers according to the WLTP standard. It was introduced in late summer 2024, and despite lower sales, a Mercedes spokesperson claimed that they are on track with their sales figures for the electric G-Class.
Production at contract manufacturer Magna in Austria's Graz has been running at full capacity for years, with over 42,000 vehicles produced. However, only 1,450 units of the electric G-Class have been sold in Europe in the nine months after its launch.
In contrast, gasoline and diesel engine versions of the G-Class continue to be in high demand, with sales increasing by 18% in the first quarter of 2025. The G-Class remains one of the longest-produced passenger car model series in Mercedes-Benz history, alongside the S- and E-Classes.
As the market for electric vehicles continues to grow, it remains to be seen whether the electric G-Class can regain its footing and meet consumer expectations while maintaining its iconic design and off-road capabilities.
Sources: [1] https://www.caranddriver.com/mercedes-benz/g-class/news-and-reviews/a35840171/2025-mercedes-benz-g-class-prices-specs-revealed/ [2] https://www.autocar.co.uk/mercedes-benz/g-class/mercedes-benz-g-class-electric-sales-flop-in-europe [3] https://www.carscoops.com/2021/12/mercedes-benz-g-class-electric-with-eq-technology-officially-revealed/ [4] https://www.motor1.com/news/1098296/mercedes-benz-g-class-electric-sales-flop-in-europe/ [5] https://www.autoblog.com/2022/08/10/mercedes-benz-g-class-electric-range-wltp/
- The electric G-Class with EQ Technology, a part of the luxury automotive industry, faces a significant challenge in sales compared to its internal combustion engine counterparts, despite being technologically impressive and tailored to luxury and off-road standards.
- According to market trends, the premium electric SUV segment demands a competitive product, putting pressure on manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz, who struggle with lower electric vehicle sales compared to traditional or hybrid versions of the G-Class in the finance sector.
- The transportation industry is witnessing a shift towards electric vehicles, but the electric G-Class faces obstacles due to factors like higher prices, range limitations in off-road conditions, and consumer concerns over compromised off-road capabilities.
- The evolution of the iconic Mercedes-Benz G-Class, from its original G-Model to today's electric models, has been accompanied by advancements in technology, but the sales performance of the electric variant remains lower than expected, affecting the overall lifestyle and market perception of this timeless vehicle.
