Even if it was completely revised in 2018, the G-Class gives the impression of never having changed its recipe since its debut in 1979. But the EQG concept, presented in Munich, heralds a next revolution: the scheduled arrival of ‘a 100% electric version.
At first glance, it is difficult to imagine a vehicle more prehistoric than the G-Class. With its square silhouette, its ladder frame and its rigid rear axle, this crossover 4×4 gives the impression of having remained the same since 1979. But under conditions outside almost immutable, it has in reality never ceased to become gentrified. Especially since the arrival of a whole new generation in 2018, equipped with state-of-the-art technology. The “G” is therefore far from being an allergic to progress, as it proves again at the Munich Motor Show with the presentation of the EQG concept.
No more backpacking spare tire
If you are at least familiar with the Mercedes appellations, you have already guessed that this is a 100% electric version. The brand has associated this type of engine with the letters EQ since the launch of the EQC in 2019. As on the other models bearing these initials, there is also a full grille, here lit in blue. But there is no question of touching the timeless look of one of the most emblematic 4x4s in history. Only small touches make the difference with the thermal versions. In addition to a two-tone livery, we note the presence of a light strip on either side of the luggage rack installed on the roof of this concept very close to the series. The spare wheel also ceases to dominate the trunk. It is replaced by a rectangular box inspired by a Wall Box, allowing the charging cables to be housed.
Four electric motors near the wheels
The EQG nevertheless promises to remain capable of all the ups and downs far from the asphalt. It retains its robust ladder frame, its rigid rear axle or even a reducer that is very useful in off-roading, thanks to a gearbox with two manually selectable ratios. On the other hand, he got rid of the classic all-wheel drive. It is replaced by four electric motors, located near the wheels. A solution already used in 2011 on the SLS E-Cell. The torque distribution can thus be controlled even more finely depending on the grip and the obstacles encountered. Mercedes also indicates that this G-Class of the XXIe century will be subjected to its test track in the Austrian mountains of Graz (Austria), which has slopes of up to 60 degrees.
Marketing in 2023?
Unfortunately, the brand does not specify the power, the autonomy or the capacity of the batteries. Only the filing of the names EQG 560 and 580 by the manufacturer, last April, gives some indications, announcing a rather generous cavalry. The new EQS 580 indeed achieves 524 hp. The interior has also not been revealed and the date of release is not mentioned either. But given the very realistic nature of this “concept”, there will be no need to wait forever. A launch in 2023 seems most plausible. The dinosaur will thus be better equipped than ever to start a new era, that of the dreaded Euro 7 standard which promises to make the pollution control of heat engines ever more complicated.
