The days of the current Mercedes G-Class are numbered. Will the venerable German off-roader finally retire after a 47-year career? Not really, in fact: the famous 4×4 of the brand with the star, which has just set a new world sales record in 2021, will simply abandon internal combustion engines to switch to 100% electric technology. But it will keep its separate frame and very distinctive construction.
The future electric Mercedes G-Class rolls the mechanics
On the occasion of the launch of the development prototypes of the future EQG, Mercedes invited journalists to come and try the famous “G-Turn”, this maneuver similar to that of the Rivian R1T which consists in making the vehicle turn on itself. It is possible thanks to the mechanical configuration of the vehicle, equipped with an electric motor in each of the wheels, which allows the direction of the two wheels on the same side to be reversed. Like a maneuvering tank, then.
Three tons on the scale?
Expected for 2024 at the earliest, the future Mercedes EQG will carry large batteries to ensure sufficient range despite its truck-like aerodynamics. According to journalists who managed to get on the camouflaged development prototypes, the car should weigh about three tons empty. What crosses the heavyweight license bar with a GVW over 3.5 tons? Knowing that the largest electric SUVs on the current market are already 120kg from this figure currently with a curb mass slightly above 2,800kg, is the risk.
