Mercedes-Benz is preparing a compact electric SUV G-Class
By ForGeeks
Mercedes-Benz has officially confirmed rumors that it is developing a «Mini G-Class» — smaller version of the legendary SUV. The company announced the news at the Munich Motor Show, revealing a blacked-out teaser showing the classic G-Wagen features: a boxy silhouette, a side trunk door with a hinged spare tire, and signature taillights.
Mercedes-Benz has confirmed that it is developing a smaller version of the legendary G-Class.
Design chief Gorden Wagener says the new SUV will retain the family’s recognizability, but will get «more spice» and «younger graphics» in the details. That said, engineers had to develop many unique elements from scratch. As technical director Markus Schaefer pointed out, even the door handles had to be designed specifically to maintain authenticity.
And the door handles had to be designed specifically to maintain authenticity.
The model will be built on a new platform with «a miniature ladder frame» — it’s the kind of structure traditionally used in serious SUVs for its strength and durability.
The main difference between the classic G-Class and the electric EQG is that the «little brother» will come exclusively in an electric version. Mercedes is not yet revealing technical specifications, limiting itself to a promise to «stay tuned».
General Manager Ola Kallenius said the first test prototypes will hit the roads very soon. That means the project will move from the development stage to real-world testing, as well as start competing with other premium compact SUVs, including a possible «junior» Land Rover Defender.
