​​When the G-Wagen Goes EV​

When looking at Mercedes-Benz’s impressively sleek EV sedans, one might think the last vehicle in its lineup to go EV would be the G-Class. That is because the G-Wagen, as it is also known, stands in contrast not only to the electrically driven EQ models but all other Mercedes-Benz models in being defiantly upright, squared-off, and overtly non-aerodynamic. It is also known for its big gas and sometimes diesel powertrains.  

However, Mercedes-Benz saw the potential of an EV drivetrain aiding the off-road abilities for which the G-Wagen is known and took the plunge. The result is the 2025 G 580, the first fully electric version of the G-Class. This Mercedes-Benz of Plano blog gives you the highlights of what the G 580 is all about.  

Unlike other Mercedes-Benz models that have a distinct and notably more aerodynamic body than their gas-driven counterparts, and with an official name that sounds more like a description, the “2025 Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology” retains all of the G-Class’s sheet metal and interior design. The model’s size works in this configuration, with room for a 116-kWh (usable) battery pack. The pack feeds no less than four electric motors, one for each wheel, which is how the G 580 can pull off off-road tricks the gas model couldn’t dream of. 

The most notable feature unique to the electric-powered G is the ability to rotate the driver- and passenger-side wheels in opposite directions. This enables the G 580 to turn on its own axis like a military tank. Dubbed “G-Turn,” this can get the big SUV in and out of very tight spaces. In addition to “G-Turn” is “G-Steering,” which locks the inside rear wheel to help the G 580 execute much tighter turns while still making forward progress as opposed to the G-Turn. It is also an additionally valuable ability when navigating a large SUV through tight spaces.  

The G 580 also features a low-range transfer case, giving it a 2:1 torque multiplier for low-speed off-roading, and there are three settings for the crawl function. Its ground clearance is 9.8 inches, and the approach, departure, and breakover angles are 32, 30.7, and 20.3 degrees, respectively. It can ford water up to 33.5 inches deep, which is about six more inches than its gas-driven counterpart. 

Regarding power, the G 580’s four motors add up to 579 horsepower and 859 lb-ft of torque, which, as in all EVs, is fully accessible the moment you apply pressure to the accelerator pedal. Besides the two-speed transfer case, there is no need for a transmission, and as such, the G 580 can haul its nearly 7,000 pounds from still to 60 mph in about 4.5 seconds. The inverse of that metric, specifically braking from 60 to 0 mph, is reached in 110 feet, two feet past the gas-driven G 550 of 108 feet.  

The big battery pack’s weight and low position help keep it flat in the curves. On the Edmunds.com skid pad, the G 580 reached 0.84g, significantly exceeding the 0.74g it marked for the AMG® G 63. 

With its undeniable weight, 33-inch off-road tires, and a rather brick-like approach to aerodynamics, the 116-kWh battery pack can take the G 580 to an official EPA-estimated 239 miles between charges. Edmunds.com bested that, however, with 266 miles on a test route that was 60% city and 40% highway. When recharging, the G 580 will take in 200 kw from a DC-direct fast charger, which will get it from a 10 to 80% state of charge in about 32 minutes. 

Inside, it is indistinguishable from its gas-driven G siblings, aside from the EV-specific info on the 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and identically sized center touchscreen. You will find all the coddling you expect from a model costing six figures, plus the quiet operation of the EV drivetrain.  

Forbes found the G 580 to be an interesting exercise. Motor Authority ranked it as one of six finalists for its annual Best Car to Buy award. Edmunds.com flat-out considered it the best G-Wagen on the market: “We'd take the G 580 over other gas-powered G-Class models any day.” 

Your assessment of the G 580 will likely have much to do with how you plan to use it. It may be the G-Wagen for you if you enjoy off-roading and can do it relatively close to home or a charging station. If it is your designated road trip vehicle and you like long trips, you will have the charging time and infrastructure to consider. In any case, if you are considering a G-Class, you should check out and test drive at Mercedes-Benz of Plano what an EV drivetrain has done for it.