Mercedes’ G-class SUV could be electrified next year as a model for 2025, which will cause a lot of grumbling from traditionalists. The survival of the iconoclastic SUV depends, as always, on its evolution in line with current technology. According to the brand’s EQG concept, the production model will closely resemble modern gas-burning G -wagons. This means it will look and perform like a glitzy ‘box on wheels’ on any terrain.
2025 Mercedes-Benz EQG Changes
The EV’s details are limited. We do know that it will have a body-on-frame layout, with independent front suspension and a rear axle. Mercedes describes a “G-turn” as a development mule rotating around its axis in the dirt. This video suggests that each wheel will be powered by an electric motor.
It is safe to assume that despite the extra few hundred pounds, there will be a combined output of between 500 and 600 horsepower, as well as a range of at least 250 miles. The last G63 we tested, with 577 hp, weighed in at close to 5800 lbs and reached 60 mph within 3.8 seconds. Unfortunately, the G’s current V-8 rumble won’t be retained in the electric conversion.
Engine
The motors will be mated with a two-gear shiftable transmission, similar to the “low” gear in a traditional truck. The company claims that the production model will retain all the features of G-Class SUVs, including their climbing angle and fording depth. The electric powertrain is designed to improve off-road performance by lowering the center of gravity, and providing “enormous controllability and towing capabilities”.
The EQG’s functional concept is powered by a 107.8 kWh lithium-ion battery built into the SUV ladder frame chassis. The same battery pack powers the EQS sedan for 350 miles per full charge. The production vehicle could end up with a completely different system. According to the company, the EQG can be equipped with a battery that has a longer range and uses silicon anode chemistry. This new technology allows for a 20%-40% increase in energy density and should be available mid-decade.
Exterior
The EQG’s round headlights are still present, but many other exterior features distinguish the electric SUV from the conventional G-class. The grille is replaced by a black panel that uses LEDs to create the “star” pattern. The side styling is now dominated by light bands instead of chrome, and the lockbox replaces the old spare tire casing.
The new instrument panel and electronics system spans across the entire width of the vehicle in a wave-like pattern. The new instrument panel and electronics system spans across the entire width of the vehicle in a wave-like pattern.
Interior
This blocky SUV will move more efficiently if it has a less chiseled look. The interior of the EQG will be dominated by large screens that are part of Mercedes’ latest infotainment systems.
2025 Mercedes-Benz EQG Price & Release Date
The EQG will likely be available as a model for 2025 in 2024. It is likely to be manufactured by Magna Steyr at its Graz facility, Austria, a contract producer that builds the G-Class. The price of the electric EQG has yet to be revealed. However, we can assume that the base model’s starting price will be around $150,000 at launch in 2024. The 2022 G-Class starts at $132,800 including the $1,050 fee for destination, while the high-performance AMG G-Class SUV starts at $157.500 (including the $1,050 fee for destination).