It is undoubtedly one of THE automotive design icons and an off-road legend without equal. The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is a vehicle that works equally well on and off the road, combining performance with modern luxury and distinct pop-cultural appeal. Now the longest-built passenger car model series in the brand’s history starts a new era: Chapter was present at the eagerly awaited world premiere of the electric G-Class in Los Angeles.
L.A., on April 23, 2024. There could hardly be a more fitting place to celebrate the opening of a new chapter of the iconic Geländewagen than Beverly Hills. After all, since its market launch in 1979, the G-Class has not only left its mark on the automotive world, but has also gained a firm place in pop culture – from numerous appearances in blockbuster movies to music videos and fashion campaigns. Hip-hop musicians in particular quickly discovered that a G was well suited as a boost for new tracks and wrote songs of praise for the German carmaker’s flagship model. Designers such as Virgil Abloh have also dedicated themselves to the iconic off-road vehicle in highly acclaimed art projects, and a list of the self-confessed celebrity fans of the »G-Wagen« would go beyond the scope of this article anyway.
So it is hardly surprising that a number of celebrities from the worlds of music, fashion, film and culture attended yesterday’s international world premiere in the impressive setting of Franklin Canyon Park Los Angeles to celebrate the Mercedes-Benz G-Class ‘ entry into the age of electric mobility. From Bradley Cooper and Kendall Jenner to hip-hop musician Travis Scott, who wowed the invited guests with a surprise gig.
Iconic design language meets state-of-the-art drive technology – that’s how you could describe the electric G-Class in a nutshell. Unsurprisingly, it continues to impress with its classic, distinctive boxy design and the design details that have always been typical of the model, but is enhanced with new E-specific accents – including the optional black radiator grille, a redesigned, raised hood and the so-called »Air Curtains« in the rear wheel arch extensions.
In addition, an innovative drive concept will of course also raise the driving characteristics to a new level. The four individually controllable electric motors not only guarantee maximum performance – or off-road talents, of course – but also offer new e-specific functions. For example, the G-turn allows you to turn almost on the spot, while the G-steering function enables a significantly smaller turning circle when driving off-road. With the so-called G-Roar, a new and individually controllable sound experience will also be available.
»The G-Class is a true legend. We are very excited to celebrate the long-awaited debut of the electric model here in Los Angeles. It feels just as much at home here as in open terrain. Our new electric G-Class can do everything that the familiar G-Class can do – and even more,« announced Michael Schiebe, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH and Head of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class & Mercedes-Maybach divisions, visibly proud of the launch of the electric off-road vehicle icon.
With the electric G-Class , Mercedes-Benz is opening what is probably the most important new chapter in the history of this legendary model series to date. A vehicle that combines proven off-road capabilities with state-of-the-art technology. It transforms an icon into the age of electromobility while remaining true to its unique history and iconic design language. [CS]
