Mercedes G-Wagon Goes Electric: Our Exclusive Test Drive

author: FutureCar Staff    

We can attribute the existence of the electric Mercedes-Benz G-Class, also known as the G-Wagon, to Arnold Schwarzenegger. During the debut of the V8 G-Class in Detroit in 2018, Schwarzenegger urged Dieter Zetsche, the then head of Mercedes-Benz, to create a battery-powered version of the SUV being manufactured in Graz, Austria, near Schwarzenegger's hometown. Although the idea had not been thoroughly discussed by Mercedes, Zetsche agreed to Schwarzenegger's request.

Ola Källenius, the current CEO of Mercedes, recalls the moment when Schwarzenegger made the request. Källenius, who was in charge of research and development at the time, jokingly asked his team if they had a product plan for an electric G-Wagon. The response was that they now had one. Five years later, I am about to become the first non-Mercedes employee to test drive the electric G-Wagon.

The new electric G-Wagon retains the iconic design elements of the original Geländewagen, such as its brick-shaped body, round owl-like headlights, 22-inch wheels, and high ground clearance. However, with electric motors at each wheel, instant torque, a quiet ride, and advanced software for rough terrain, the electric G-Wagon is even better suited for off-road driving than its internal combustion counterpart. If Mercedes can overcome production challenges, the new electric G-Wagon is likely to captivate both loyal fans and new enthusiasts.

During my test drive with Källenius at the wheel, I experienced the electric G-Wagon's capabilities on Schöckl Mountain. I then took the wheel myself at a nearby Mercedes testing ground, tackling obstacles like mud hills, steep inclines, and rocky trails. The electric G-Wagon performed impressively, gripping the terrain with ease and demonstrating excellent balance due to its lower center of gravity. Its acceleration, braking, and handling were exceptional, and the regeneration ability of the brakes helped recoup energy. The electric G-Wagon's off-road capabilities rival those of the conventional G-Wagon, but with the added benefit of a silent ride.

Externally, the electric G-Wagon closely resembles its conventional counterpart, with only subtle modifications like a slightly sloped rear roofline for improved efficiency. The interior is expected to be similar as well, featuring high-resolution dual touchscreen displays and intuitive touch controls on the steering wheel. One unique feature of the electric G-Wagon is the "G Turn," which allows the vehicle to spin 360 degrees without significantly moving forward or backward. This feature could be useful in tight spaces or when reversing course.

Despite its impressive capabilities and features, the electric G-Wagon's availability may be limited. The Mercedes-Benz G-Class has a devoted following, with an average price of $150,000, making it a sought-after status symbol among athletes, reality stars, and off-road enthusiasts. The demand for G-Wagons has been so high that waiting lists exceeded two years, leading Mercedes to temporarily stop taking new orders. However, the company is prepared for the influx of electric G-Wagons and is committed to electrifying its entire product range. Mercedes has invested over $47 billion in electrification efforts and plans to introduce a smaller electric version, known as the "Baby G," in the coming years.

FutureCar Staff