Mercedes-Benz G-Class goes electric! Land Rover Defender on notice EQG EV concept previews iconic G-Wagen off-roader's zero-emissions future

If the inevitably of the electric vehicle (EV) revolution isn’t apparent to you yet, it should be now, with Mercedes-Benz revealing the EQG concept, a zero-emissions version of its iconic 4x4, the G-Class.

Described as Mercedes-Benz’s “near-production study of an all-electric model variant of its utilitarian off-road icon”, the EQG concept takes the G-Wagen off-roader and gives it a zero-emissions twist.

That said, we’re yet to get a sense of the EQG concept’s powertrain, so it’s anybody’s guess as to how powerful its individually controllable four electric motors are, or the size of its battery and, therefore, its range. Same goes for its performance and charging times.

Read More About Mercedes-Benz G-Class

2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class pricing and specs detailed: Entry-level G 400d targets Land Rover Defender with punchy diesel engine New Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen to go electric Mercedes-Benz G-Class news and reviews

So, what do we know at this stage? Well, the EQG concept is immediately recognisable as a G-Class, with the main difference being its closed-off grille, with the black panel also surrounding the headlights and featuring an illuminated badge and 'squircle' pattern.

Unique bumpers and 22-inch alloy wheels are also fitted to the EQG concept, which also has a flat roof rack with an integrated light bar and third brake light at its respective ends, round side indicators and a wheel-cover-replacing lockable box that’s squared off.

More importantly, though, the EQC concept retains the G-Wagen’s ladder-frame chassis, ensuring it remains “extremely off-road capable”, according to Mercedes-Benz, with its independent front and rigid rear axles newly developed to accommodate electric drive.

“As with any real 4x4, the Concept EQG's off-road reduction can be activated via a shiftable two-speed gearbox, in order to meet the high ‘G’-specific off-road requirements with confidence,” the brand added.

There’s no word yet on when the series-production EQG will be revealed and released, but G-Class fans shouldn’t have to wait too long, if other concepts from Mercedes-Benz’s emerging EQ EV sub-brand are anything to go by. Stay tuned.