This year’s IAA Mobility conference in Munich is starting off a bit early with a slew of reveals from Mercedes-Benz. As the company moves rapidly toward its electrified future, questions arose on what would happen to the iconic G-Wagen. Have no fear, because the Concept EQG is a really strong indication of where that vehicle is heading.
Even though the G is seen more on Rodeo Drive than out in the wilderness, Mercedes is proud of its G heritage and the off-road capability. Electrification enhances the EQG in the department instead of taking away from it.
The EQG has four electric motors — one at each wheel — to enhance performance. Considering that Mercedes can control the power to each wheel individually, the vehicle can have the equivalent of front, rear, and center locking differentials without having to carry the hardware. In fact, it could in theory go beyond that by sending power to the only wheel with traction if necessary. We’ll have to see how Mercedes handles it in production trim.
Additionally, there’s a two-speed transfer case for off-road gear reduction, just like 4LO in the current G-Wagen.
From the appearance perspective, the EQG looks all G-Wagen with a boxy, rugged design. “We’re traveling into the future with the new EQG! This car epitomizes the fusion of state-of-the-art off-road capabilities with the dawn of electric mobility that we all need to strive for. It stands for our relentless pursuit of the utmost desire and luxury. For us, the most important thing was to keep the full G-Class DNA but beam it into the EQ age: Like the G-Class but different. Modern accents like the white LED technology and a wallbox on the rear of the vehicle illustrate the difference.” says Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer Daimler Group.
Instead of a door-mounted spare tire carrying a 5th 22-inch wheel, it becomes a storage area for storing the charging cable or other accessory.
LED lightning is utilized throughout, like any modern Mercedes, but with a flare toward the future. A roof rack adds to the storage capability of the EQG, and would likely store a roof-mounted tent, too.
When the production version does go on sale, don’t expect it to look significantly different from the “concept” shown here. While there might be smaller-wheeled versions and some with more off-road hardware (like a bull bar or chunkier tires), what you’re looking at here could very well be the final version of choice for the buyers who spend their time in the trendy nightclubs of Beverly Hills or Nice.
We’ve included a full photo gallery of the Concept EQG from Mercedes-Benz below. What do you think about the new electric? Is it something you can see people driving? Does it pay homage to the classic G-Wagens that made Mercedes — and the model — as popular as it is? Let us know in the comments section below.
