The Mercedes G 580 with EQ Technology holds a significant place as the first electric Popemobile. For decades, Mercedes-Benz G-Class Popemobiles have been a staple in the Vatican vehicle fleet. Now, with the off-roader going electric, it's a fitting evolution.

Mercedes' Long History with the Vatican

Mercedes has a rich history of supplying cars to the Vatican. It all began in 1930 with a Nürburg 460 Pullman sedan for Pope Pius XI. The term Popemobile was coined for a series of modified G-Class SUVs. These started with a 460-series model first used by John Paul II in the 1980s and have been used by his successors Benedict XVI and Francis. These vehicles feature elevated seating platforms and armored glass enclosures for the pontiff. 2: This long-standing relationship shows Mercedes' commitment to serving the Vatican. The transition to an electric Popemobile is a natural progression in the automotive world and a symbol of modernity.

The Electric G-Class as the First Electric Popemobile

Mercedes presented Pope Francis with the first official electric Popemobile based on the all-electric G 580 with EQ Technology. This model reaches U.S. showrooms this year as a 2025 model. It has a quad-motor powertrain producing 579 hp and 859 lb-ft of torque, enabling it to go from 0-62 mph in 4.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 112 mph. The quad motors also offer a G-Turn feature for 360-degree turns on low-friction surfaces. 2: While this makes the electric G-Class historically apt as the first electric Popemobile, it's also a result of Fisker's failure to deliver an Ocean-based Popemobile in 2021. Mercedes was also slated to supply an M-Class plug-in hybrid Popemobile for Benedict XVI in 2011, but the Vatican's perception of electric cars at that time was different.

Powertrain and Design Adaptations

The powertrain of the electric G-Wagen was retuned for low-speed driving during papal appearances. This is especially relevant for the 2025 Jubilee in Rome where the Popemobile will make its debut. The roof was cut back to create an open seating area, with a cutout where the tailgate would normally be for easy ingress and egress. The left rear door was removed, and the right rear door was given a reverse hinge to act as another entry point. The vehicle was given a pearl white paint job with matching upholstery. 2: These design adaptations ensure the Popemobile is both functional and visually appealing. It combines modern electric technology with the iconic G-Class design.

Not the First EV in the Vatican Fleet

Although the G-Class is the first electric Popemobile, it's not the first EV in the Vatican fleet. General Motors presented Pope Francis with an Opel Ampera-e in 2017, and Benedict XVI received a pair of electric cars from Renault in 2012. However, the Mercedes will be the first to be used in an official capacity for public appearances. 2: This shows the Vatican's growing interest in electric vehicles and their integration into important events. The Mercedes G 580 with EQ Technology sets a new standard for electric Popemobiles.