If you ever thought that electrification was synonymous with city kids and quiet sedans, then you have not yet met Mercedes' new off-road hero - the G 580 with EQ technology, or EQG. This machine isn't just an SUV, it's like a Swiss army knife for billionaires who want to keep their vegan shoes clean while carelessly gliding across apocalyptic landscapes.
The EQG is electrified with a 116 kWh battery, which at 432 kW (580 hp) ensures that you'll have enough power to blast through the jungle or city traffic (if you really have to). 1,164 Nm of torque is enough to uproot trees (not that you ever do, of course). And for those of you concerned about speed, this electric jumper accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.7 seconds, and its top speed is limited to 180 km/h (112 mph). Considering this box is designed like a tool cabinet, those are pretty impressive numbers.
Photo: Mercedes-Benz
Photo: Mercedes-BenzThe EQG does support DC fast charging up to 200kW, allowing its mighty 116kWh battery to charge from the 10% to the 80% in around 32 minutes. This means that while you're taking a quick coffee break, your EQG is already preparing for its next adventure. It's not the fastest charging in the industry, but it's still enough to ensure you won't be the last to charge at a fast charger.
Field skills that even Bear Grylls would approve of
EQG is designed so that it can continue to maintain its icon status even in the wild. It is capable of overcoming water obstacles up to 850 mm (33 inches) deep and persisting on slopes of up to 35 degrees like some tenacious mountain ibex. Not to mention Mercedes' "G-Turn" innovation, which allows the vehicle to perform a complete U-turn on the spot - because why turn when you can easily turn the whole car around?
Entry and exit angles are key elements that determine a vehicle's off-road capability, as they allow the vehicle to safely and efficiently tackle steep hills and descents without causing damage to the underbody or other damage. The Mercedes electric G-Wagen EQG boasts impressive angles: the entry angle is 32.0 degrees, the exit angle is 30.7 degrees, which, together with the breaking angle of 20.3 degrees, ensures that the EQG can easily cope with the rugged and demanding terrain.
Its robust design with independent front suspension and rigid rear axle is not just for decoration. The undercarriage is lined with a carbon protective plate that protects the precious battery from field attacks by stones, like Napoleon his soldiers.
Photo: Mercedes-Benz
Photo: Mercedes-Benz
Photo: Mercedes-BenzAn interior where wilderness meets design
Inside the EQG, classic Mercedes luxury still reigns supreme. The driver is provided with a 12.3-inch digital screen with the MBUX system, and the passenger can cling to the legendary handle when encountering unexpected off-road challenges. The real star, however, is the rear-seat screens, which allow passengers to watch their favorite series or two while the EQG tackles natural obstacles.
Photo: Mercedes-Benz
Photo: Mercedes-BenzAnd the price? Get your bank accounts ready
We start at EUR 142,621.50 ($152,184.27), which is not a little, but given that it is an electric SUV that combines luxury and performance, the price may even be justified. The first edition or "Edition One" will go for EUR 192,524.15 ($205,432.89). Because you know, first things are always a little more expensive.
The Mercedes EQG is a vehicle for those who want to eat their caviar even on top of an uninhabited mountain. The question remains, however, whether most of these vehicles will ever leave paved roads. Regardless, Mercedes proves that an electric future can be just as rugged and prestigious as its gasoline-powered past. Maybe a little more.
