Mercedes-Benz plans to add a battery-powered version of the G-class off-roader. A full-electric version of the G class will help Mercedes meet future CO2 emissions regulations. It will also help secure the model’s future at a time when environmentalists are targeting heavy, less-efficient SUVs with high emissions.
Ola Kallenius, CEO of Mercedes parent Daimler, told the Automobilwoche Congress on November 7 that there will be a zero-emissions version of the G class.
“We will electrify the G class and significantly improve the CO2 balance of the powertrain when there is a model upgrading,” Kallenius said.
The rugged, boxy-styled G class has changed little since the body-on-frame SUV was introduced in 1979. It is built by contract manufacturer Magna Steyr in Graz, Austria. The latest G class, which is bigger, lighter and more luxurious than its predecessor, was introduced at the 2018 Detroit auto show. The U.S. is the biggest global market for the G class.
The future of the G class has been in doubt a number of times during its life because of its very niche appeal. But Kallenius indicated that it has a long future under his leadership.
“In the past there were discussions whether we should eliminate the model, the way I see things now I would say the last Mercedes to be built will be a G class,” Kallenius said.
Kallenius gave no details of the timing of the electric G class launch, nor any information about its drivetrain. The electric G class is likely to use the EQ badge that Mercedes uses for its battery-powered vehicles such as the EQC compact crossover. Austrian company Kreisel Electric has already modified a G class with an electric powertrain for former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, a native of Graz.
This news release originally appeared at this link.
