We already know that Mercedes-Benz is working on a fully electric version of the G-Class, a model that chief executive Ola Kallenius has described as inevitable. A new report coming from the German website Mbpassion claims that the upcoming EQG will debut in concept form this September at the IAA Mobility show in Munich.
The rumors for the expansion of the G-Class range started in October 2020 when Mercedes confirmed their plans to make the G-Class a brand of its own. More recently, it was reported that Mercedes has selected the IAA Mobility show to formally announce their three new subbrands – AMG, Maybach, and G-Class.
It makes perfect sense for the German brand to unveil the EQ version of their most capable and rugged off-roader at the same time. It is rumored that the car will arrive in prototype form, but the nature of the conversion means it could be very close to production.
Leaked documents from April 2021 made it clear that the electric G-Class will be named EQG, matching the other fully electric members of the EQ range. The same documents revealed that it will be available in two versions – the EQG 560 and the EQG 580. While previously we didn’t have information on the technical base of the electric G-Class, it is now reported that the model will sit on a modified version of the ladder frame, thus not making the move to a dedicated electric architecture.
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As expected from any G-Wagen, the EQG will have standard all-wheel drive with three locking differentials. Judging from the 580 powertrain of the flagship limousine EQS, the EQG 580 will probably feature dual electric motors (one on each axle) with a combined power output of 516 hp (385 kW / 523 PS) and 611 lb-ft (828 Nm) of torque. A floor-mounted 108 KWh battery will offer a range of around 500 km (311 miles) between charging, despite the car’s weight and volume. While we don’t have any information on the EQG 560, it will presumably be a lesser variant that will retain the off-road credentials of the EQG 580.
From what we have seen already, ICE-based models of the EQ range like the EQA (GLA), EQB (GLB), and EQC (GLC) feature redesigned body panels in order to better differentiate from their conventional variants. While the situation is quite different with the EQC that is a completely different model compared to the S-Class, we expect the EQG to retain a very close resemblance to the G-Class. The angular body, classic off-road proportions, high ground clearance, and minimum overhangs will be carried over, while a more aerodynamic front end with a covered grille will be at the forefront of the design changes.
While we will probably see the EQG concept in Munich between 7-12 September 2021, the production version will follow later, either in 2022 or 2023. This won’t be the only expansion of the G-Class range as we also expect the even more capable Mercedes-AMG G-Class 4×4 Squared to arrive soon.
Note: Standard ICE-powered Mercedes-Benz G-Class pictured
