Electric Mercedes G-Class in South Africa soon - here’s how much the Launch Edition costs

For the first time ever, the Mercedes G-Class will be available with electric power, and it’s priced at the same level as the new G63 AMG hybrid model.

The new Mercedes-Benz G580 with EQ Technology is set to hit local shores during the first quarter of 2025, with the Launch Edition priced at R4,647,456. That’s just R17,000 more than the updated G63 commands.

Mercedes will also offer a ‘standard’ version of the G580 EV, which will presumably cost less, but pricing for this version has yet to be released.

Although it lacks the roaring V8 that many G-Class fans have come to love, the G580 EV does have some rather interesting features.

Featuring an electric motor on each wheel, the G580 boasts a “G-TURN” function that allows it to perform tank turns “almost on the spot”, even on loose surfaces.

The G580 with EQ Technology also has a three-speed intelligent off-road crawl function for intense off-roading, as well as intelligent torque vectoring that mimics the function of conventional differential locks for those axle-twisting trails.

The four e-motors collectively produce 432kW and 1,164Nm, trouncing the hybrid G63’s outputs of 430kW and 850Nm. Owing to its three-tonne kerb weight the battery-powered G-Wagon is 0.2 seconds slower than its AMG sibling from 0-100km/h, which comes up in a claimed 4.7 seconds.

Simulated powertrain sounds are available for owners who can stomach them, including ‘G-Roar’, ‘aura’ and a variety of ‘event’ sounds.

The G580 comes with a 116 kWh lithium-ion battery that enables a claimed range of 473km between charges.

Its 200kW charging capability allows for a DC fast-charge in as little as 32 minutes. Shielding the battery from rocks and other hazards typically encountered on off-road trails is a comprehensive underbody protection system made from an ‘intelligent’ mix of materials, including carbon.

The Edition One, available at launch, comes with the AMG Line and Night Package as standard, including 20-inch AMG 10-spoke alloy wheels in high-gloss black.

The launch edition is available in five colours: Obsidian Black Metallic, South Sea Blue Magno, Opalite White Magno, Opalite White Bright and Classic Grey Solid, the latter four hues being from the Manufaktur palette.

Spec-wise, the G580 Edition One is equipped with a 12.3-inch (31.2cm) MBUX driver and media display, multi-function steering wheel in Nappa leather, ambient lighting, “transparent bonnet” and a Burmester 3D surround sound system.

IOL