MERCEDES EQG
The big and beefy G-Class line-up for 2024 includes an all-electric version
Following in the wide and knobbly tyre tracks of the GMC Hummer EV and the Rivian S1, Mercedes is about to electrify the G-Class. Dubbed EQG, the near-silent eco-friendly three-tonner shares the boxy body with the facelifted combustion-engine versions that go on sale simultaneously in the summer.
The 326bhp G400d will be replaced by the mild-hybrid 385bhp G450d, the G500 swaps the thirsty 416bhp V8 for a hybrid 3.0-litre six rated at 466bhp, and the output of the G63 AMG is expected to climb from 577bhp to 621bhp by means of the beefier AMG GT-4 engine. And if aV8 now sounds very old-hat to you, your alternative awaits in the form of the all-new fully electric EQG featuring four e-motors – one at each corner – and a 107kWh battery.
The EQG boasts the AMG Ride Control chassis first used in the SL and AMG GT. Also available as an option for the G63, it replaces the traditional anti-roll bars with longitudinally, transversely and diagonally connected hydraulic elements attached to the four shock absorbers and spring struts. The system is claimed to greatly improve the on- and off-road ride comfort while at the same time reducing roll, yaw, pitch, dive and squat. It’s also claimed to bring more precise turn-in behaviour, an increased lean angle off the beaten track, and the introduction of a Sport mode for amore dynamic on-road performance. The ladder frame of the EQG is filled with battery modules which add weight but lower the centre of gravity.
For packaging reasons, Mercedes-AMG and long-time G-Class builder Magna Steyr had to develop a new live rear axle located by a Panhard rod. In addition to the indispensable diff locks, the EQG fea
