Mercedes-Benz made it clear years ago that an all-electric G-Class would eventually be part of its lineup, when it debuted the EQG EV concept. Expected to debut towards at the end of this year or in early 2024, the Mercedes-Benz EQG will usher in a new era for the infamous G-Wagon. The prototype caught on camera by spy photographers in the Arctic Circle shows that the EQG won’t steer too far away from the styling we’ve come to known with the G-Class, although there will be some changes to differentiate it from its ICE counterpart.
For starters, there’s a different grille up front that is partially closed off, similar to what you’d find on the current EQ models from the German automaker. Several pieces of the body also appear to be different than the current G-Class, including the front bumper, fender flares, and rear bumper. And obviously Mercedes-Benz is testing different wheels that are designed to minimize drag to help maximize driving range. While there are clearly some details on the EQG that will be different than the standard gasoline-powered G-Class, it will retain the same overall style that has become so iconic over the last few decades.
For power, we know that Mercedes is planning to outfit a model of the EQG with four electric motors — one for each wheel. That model will likely be more powerful than any current G-Class offering with impressive towing capability. But chances are, a more pedestrian dual-motor setup will also likely be part of the lineup. There are currently no hints as to the battery capacity for the EQG, and it’s unclear if Mercedes-Benz has a target range for the all-electric G-Class.
What we do know is that the EQG should ride on a ladder-frame chassis, so it should still be plenty off-road capable. But let’s be honest, these days there are more G-Class vehicles roaming the suburbs than the great outdoors. Look for more information on the Mercedes-Benz EQG as it nears its debut later this year or early 2024.
