The G-Wagon needs no introduction. The boxy SUV, initially conceived as a tough military vehicle and later transformed into a luxury urban SUV, is considered to be a benchmark for off-roading vehicles around the world. With global mobility transitioning towards cleaner electric powertrains, many feel the death of true off-roading SUVs is around the corner.
When Mercedes announced the development of an all-electric G-Wagon a couple of years back, it brought a sigh of relief for the global off-roading and overlanding community. However, some still remain sceptical about the fact that an EV can venture into all kinds of terrains including mountains, snow, deserts and rivers.
All-electric Mercedes Benz G-Wagon shows true colours
Putting all uncertainties to rest, Mercedes Benz has released the first video of the all-electric G-Wagon showcasing its off-roading capabilities. In the video, the battery-powered prototype of the G-Class is seen doing everything that the G-Wagon brand is synonymous with. The company maintains its tradition of testing all its G-Wagons at the Schockl mountains in Graz, Austria which is considered to be the birthplace of the G-Class.
In fact, chief engineer Fabian Schossau in the video claims to have tested the upcoming all-electric G as many as 336 times in Schockl, hence, it is certified as “Schockl-proof”. Later Schossau and the host are joined by Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius who take the battery-powered prototype for a spin to the Schockl mountains.
The prototype is seen carrying out all rough stuff that a G-Wagon is associated with including articulation tests, water wading, etc. To protect the underpinnings and battery from damage during the severe off-roading challenges, Mercedes has designed a tough underride guard. However, the biggest highlight of this video are the 360-degree turns from a standstill on loose traction surfaces which Källenius calls ‘G Turn’.
All-electric Mercedes Benz G-Wagon: Powertrain specs
The German marque hasn’t yet confirmed powertrain details for the upcoming G-Wagon Electric but during the video Schossau mentioned that the prototype gets four motors with each motor powering an individual wheel which allows each wheel to access the torque whenever and wherever required during challenging off-road situations.
Watch Video: Mercedes Benz G-Glass Electric in action
Mercedes is expected to offer multiple battery options with the upcoming G-Wagon Electric with different ranges to consider. That said, a minimum of 300 km all-electric range is warranted for a vehicle like G-Wagon which means a battery capacity in the range of 90-100 kWh for such a large vehicle is a no brainer.
