Mercedes-Benz has released an all-electric concept version of the legendary G-Class SUV.
Launched as part of the 2021 IAA Mobility event (better known as the Munich motor show), the EQG is said to be nearly production ready.
Although it retains the classic styling of the G-Class, first launched in 1979, the EQG points firmly to the future of Mercedes-Benz.
Keeping a promise to Arnold
At the launch of the current-generation G-Class in January 2018, then Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, Dieter Zetsche, made a promise to Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Zetsche told the Hollywood legend, and major G-Class fan, that the off-roader would be included in electrification plans by Mercedes-Benz.
Since then, Mercedes-Benz has committed to being ready to ‘all electric’ by the end of the decade.
Creating an electric version of the G-Class delivers on that commitment, and on a promise to the former governor of California.
Classic design electrified
With more than 400,000 G-Class examples produced to date, recreating a battery-powered version of the original required careful consideration. Although the EQG resembles a regular G-Class, Mercedes has made subtle changes for the electric version.
With no need for a radiator grille, the EQG features a black panel with multiple illuminations. The three-pointed star logo has a 3D design, with animated blue ‘squircles’ surrounding it on the grille.
At the rear, an illuminated lockable box replaces the usual spare wheel cover. Mercedes says that the design resembles a wall-mounted charging box, and that it could be used to store charging cables.
A set of 22-inch wheels, and LED lights integrated into the roof rack, complete the EQG’s concept styling.
Still ready to off-road
Retaining a ladder frame chassis means the EQG is designed with the ability to off-road like any other G-Class.
Four electric motors will be integrated into the EQG, with the battery pack mounted low in the chassis. The power sent to each wheel can be controlled individually, allowing for extra precision in the dirt.
A selectable two-speed transmission will also allow extra control when off-roading.
Mercedes-Benz is yet to confirm for the EQG to enter production, but the concept version suggests a launch date will be in the not too distant future.
