The iconic Mercedes-Benz G-Class has officially entered the electric age. After decades of roaring V8 engines and diesel powertrains, the legendary G-Wagon now offers zero-emission luxury with the launch of the G 580 electric SUV in India. Priced at ₹3 crore, this all-electric variant promises to deliver the same rugged capability and premium experience that has made the G-Class a status symbol worldwide.
But can an electric powertrain truly capture the essence of what makes a G-Wagon special? The answer lies in understanding how Mercedes has transformed this automotive icon while preserving its legendary character.
The Electric G-Wagon Arrives in India
Mercedes-Benz officially launched the G 580 with EQ Power in India on January 9, 2025, marking a significant milestone for both the brand and the Indian luxury EV market. The electric G-Class represents the first all-electric SUV from Mercedes to launch in India this year, setting the stage for the brand’s expanding EV portfolio.
The launch has generated tremendous interest among Indian luxury car buyers. According to reports, the G 580 is already sold out until the third quarter of 2025, with Mercedes securing enough orders to maintain a waiting list through September. This overwhelming response demonstrates the strong appetite for premium electric vehicles in the Indian market.
The G 580 arrives in India as a completely built unit (CBU), imported directly from Mercedes’ manufacturing facilities. This approach allows the brand to bring the latest technology and build quality to Indian customers, albeit at a premium price point that reflects import duties and taxes.
Design: Classic G-Wagon DNA with Electric Touches
At first glance, the G 580 electric maintains the unmistakable boxy silhouette that has defined the G-Class for over four decades. Mercedes has wisely chosen to preserve the iconic design language while incorporating subtle electric-specific elements.
The front end features a closed-off grille with horizontal slats, replacing the traditional open grille of internal combustion variants. The Mercedes-Benz logo sits prominently in the center, flanked by the characteristic round LED headlights that give the G-Class its distinctive face. LED daytime running lights add a modern touch while maintaining the rugged aesthetic.
The vehicle rides on specially designed 20-inch alloy wheels in an all-black finish, contributing to its commanding road presence. These wheels are part of the AMG Line specification that comes standard with the Indian-market G 580.
One notable design element is the optional rear storage box that can replace the traditional spare wheel mounted on the tailgate. This storage compartment can house the charging cable and other accessories, offering practical benefits for electric vehicle ownership.
The overall design approach demonstrates Mercedes’ understanding that G-Class buyers value tradition. Rather than creating a radically different electric vehicle, the brand has successfully evolved the classic G-Wagon aesthetic for the electric era.
Interior: Luxury Meets Electric Innovation
Step inside the G 580, and you’ll find a cabin that balances luxury with electric-specific functionality. The interior layout remains faithful to the traditional G-Class design while incorporating modern technology and electric vehicle features.
The dashboard features Mercedes’ signature dual-screen setup, consisting of twin 12.3-inch displays for the instrument cluster and central infotainment system. These screens run Mercedes’ latest MBUX system with electric vehicle-specific software, providing real-time information about battery status, charging, and energy consumption.
Luxury appointments include heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats upholstered in premium materials. The cabin offers 64 colors of ambient lighting, allowing owners to customize the atmosphere to their preference. Three-zone climate control ensures optimal comfort for all occupants, while temperature-controlled cup holders add an extra touch of luxury.
The center console features updated controls specific to the electric drivetrain. Traditional differential lock switches have been replaced with buttons for the G-Turn feature and low-range activation, highlighting the vehicle’s unique electric capabilities.
Additional premium features include a panoramic sunroof, premium Burmester sound system, and rear entertainment screens for passenger enjoyment during longer journeys.
Electric Powertrain: Four Motors, Massive Power
The heart of the G 580 lies in its revolutionary quad-motor electric drivetrain. Unlike many electric vehicles that use one or two motors, the G 580 employs four individual electric motors, one dedicated to each wheel. This configuration provides unprecedented control and capability.
The combined output from these four motors delivers 579 horsepower and an impressive 1,164 Nm of torque. This massive torque figure exceeds many high-performance internal combustion engines and provides instant acceleration that electric vehicles are known for.
Performance figures are equally impressive. The G 580 can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.7 seconds, which is remarkable considering the vehicle’s substantial weight of just over 3 tonnes. The top speed is electronically limited to 180 km/h, more than adequate for highway driving.
The quad-motor setup also enables unique features like the G-Turn, which allows the vehicle to rotate in place like a tank by spinning the wheels on opposite sides in different directions. This party trick demonstrates the precise control possible with individual wheel motors.
Battery and Range: Built for Real-World Use
Powering the G 580’s four motors is a substantial 116 kWh battery pack, strategically positioned within the ladder-frame chassis. This large battery capacity is necessary to move the heavy SUV while maintaining reasonable range expectations.
Mercedes claims a WLTP range of 473 kilometers on a single charge. While this may seem modest compared to some electric sedans, it’s competitive for a vehicle of this size and weight. The substantial battery pack and the vehicle’s aerodynamic challenges (despite improvements, the drag coefficient remains at 0.44) contribute to higher energy consumption.
Charging capabilities are robust, with support for DC fast charging up to 200 kW. Under optimal conditions, the battery can charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes. The vehicle also supports 11 kW AC charging for overnight charging at home or office locations.
For daily driving, the range should prove adequate for most users. Urban commuting, weekend trips, and even longer journeys become feasible with India’s expanding fast-charging infrastructure.
Off-Road Capability: Electric Doesn’t Mean Compromised
One of the biggest questions surrounding the electric G-Class concerns its off-road capability. The G-Wagon has built its reputation on exceptional off-road performance, and Mercedes has ensured the electric version maintains this capability.
The G 580 offers impressive approach and departure angles of 32 degrees and 30.7 degrees respectively, with a break-over angle of 20.3 degrees. Ground clearance remains generous at 250mm, while the vehicle can ford water up to 850mm deep.
The individual wheel motors provide exceptional traction control, as power can be precisely modulated to each wheel independently. This level of control surpasses what’s possible with traditional mechanical differentials, potentially making the electric G-Class even more capable off-road than its internal combustion counterparts.
Off-road specific features include a low-range mode that reduces gearing for challenging terrain, and an Off-Road Crawl function that maintains controlled speeds over difficult surfaces. The G-Steering feature can reduce the turning radius for better maneuverability in tight spaces.
The vehicle can handle steep inclines up to 35 degrees (equivalent to a 70% gradient), demonstrating that electrification hasn’t compromised the G-Class’s legendary capability.
Safety and Technology Features
The G 580 comes equipped with Mercedes’ comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). These include active steering assist for highway driving, blind spot monitoring for safer lane changes, and active speed limit assist that can adjust vehicle speed based on traffic signs.
A 360-degree camera system provides complete visibility around the vehicle, essential for navigating tight spaces with such a large SUV. The transparent bonnet function uses cameras to show what’s directly in front of the vehicle, helpful for off-road driving and parking.
Safety features extend to tire pressure monitoring, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency. The robust construction of the G-Class, combined with modern safety technology, provides comprehensive protection for occupants.
Market Positioning and Competition
At ₹3 crore, the G 580 positions itself firmly in the ultra-luxury segment. This pricing reflects its imported status as a CBU, along with the premium associated with cutting-edge electric technology and the G-Class brand cachet.
The electric G-Class competes with other ultra-luxury electric SUVs like the Lotus Eletre, while also attracting buyers considering high-end internal combustion SUVs such as the Lamborghini Urus, Bentley Bentayga, and even the traditional G-Class variants.
The sold-out status through Q3 2025 indicates strong demand despite the premium pricing. This suggests that affluent Indian buyers are ready to embrace electric luxury vehicles, especially when they come with the prestige and capability of the G-Class nameplate.
The Future of Luxury Electric SUVs
The Mercedes G 580 represents more than just another electric vehicle launch. It demonstrates how traditional luxury brands can successfully transition iconic models to electric powertrains without losing their essential character.
The G-Class has always been about capability, luxury, and status. The electric version amplifies the first two while maintaining the third. Instant torque provides even better off-road performance, while near-silent operation adds a new dimension to luxury. The status remains intact through exclusivity and cutting-edge technology.
For the Indian market, the G 580’s success could encourage other luxury brands to accelerate their electric vehicle plans. It proves that Indian buyers are willing to pay premium prices for electric vehicles that offer genuine advantages over their internal combustion counterparts.
FAQs About Mercedes G 580 electric SUV
1. What is the price of the Mercedes G 580 electric SUV?
The Mercedes G 580 electric SUV is priced at approximately ₹3 crore, making it a premium offering in the luxury EV market.
2. What are the key features of the G 580 electric SUV?
The G 580 offers advanced electric powertrain technology, luxurious interiors, cutting-edge driver assistance systems, and the unmistakable design of the iconic G-Wagon.
3. When will deliveries for the G 580 start?
The Mercedes G 580 is sold out until Q3 2025, with deliveries expected to commence afterward.
4. What is the range of the G 580 on a full charge?
While exact figures vary depending on driving conditions, the G 580 boasts an industry-leading electric range designed to meet the demands of luxury SUV buyers.
5. Are there any government incentives for purchasing the G 580 in India?
Government incentives for electric vehicles in India typically depend on state policies. Buyers are advised to check with local authorities for available benefits.
6. How does the G 580 compare to internal combustion versions of the G-Wagon?
The G 580 retains the luxury and rugged appeal of the internal combustion G-Wagons while offering a quieter, more efficient, and emissions-free driving experience.
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