The iconic Mercedes Gelandewagen, popularly known as G-Class, will pack a robust electric powertrain under the hood, informed Mercedes-Benz India Chief Executive Officer Santosh Iyer during the company’s fourth Annual Press Conference. 

Unveiling the new G 580, Vice President Sales and Marketing Lance Bennett said, “The electric Gelandewagen is powered by the EQ technology and more. Electrifying this iconic vehicle presented several challenges as we needed to preserve its signature design and legendary off-road capabilities. Integrating EV components required us to develop a unique drive system featuring four individual electric motors.”  

“At the rear, the motors are connected to form a rigid axle, ensuring exceptional off-road traction. The axle is equipped with a two-speed gearbox, enabling gear reduction for low-range, off-road performance. The G 580 stands apart from other G-Class models with its raised bonnet and rear wheel arch air curtains. These elements are seamlessly integrated to improve aerodynamics and acoustic performance.”  

The electric variant delivers 587 horsepower and an astounding 1,164 Nm of torque, courtesy of its four electric motors. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.7 seconds. Powered by a large 116 kWh battery and an intelligent recuperation system, it offers a WLTP range of up to 473 kilometers. Fast charging from 10 percent to 80 percent takes only 32 minutes.  

Like every G-Class, the G 580 underwent the legendary Schöckl test, completing the grueling trail 336 times. This symbolic number guarantees every G-Class meets the highest standards of durability, reliability and off-road capability, earning it the Schöckl badge displayed on the B-pillar.  

“To put this into perspective, the G 580 can complete the Schöckl trail 13 times on a single charge. Its electric drivetrain and low-range gearbox make it the most capable off-roader in its class. It can climb inclines of up to 45 degrees—even in reverse—and wade through water up to 850 mm deep,” added Bennett.   

“Engineers have designed a water- and dust-proof battery pack, encased within the ladder chassis. The innovative four-motor drive system also allows for unique off-road maneuvers, enabling the vehicle to pivot on the spot by up to 720 degrees. This feature ensures that if you reach a dead end on a trail, you can turn around with ease.

Another highlight is the G-Steer function, which tightens the turning circle off-road by braking the inner wheel to slide the rear end around sharp bends,” revealed the executive.   

Inside, the electric off-road cockpit and Dynamic Select system offer a range of driving modes. In Rock Mode, the G 580 crawls effortlessly in low range with speed adjustable via steering wheel paddles, making hill ascents and descents seamless.  

The G 580 is available in a special Edition 1 model, offered in five colors including the exclusive Manufaktur South Sea Blue Magno. This edition features AMG line styling, the night package and 20-inch black alloy wheels. Additional details include blacked-out door handles with keyless go and blue brake calipers.  

The G580 is priced at INR 30 million (ex-showroom, pan-India). This icon has already garnered electrifying demand and is sold out until Q3 2025! Bookings and deliveries for the G 580 will start in Q4 2025, noted a company official. 

EQS 450 SUV

The company also launched its 5-Seater EQS 450 SUV during the event. Commenting on the same, Iyer noted, “The EQS 450 SUV builds on the success of the EQS 580, which we launched a few months ago. The EQS 450 caters to customers seeking cutting-edge technology, generous space, and sustainability at its core.”  

“We launched the EQS 580 in September last year in a 7-seater configuration. The response was phenomenal. We received feedback that there was a demand for both 7-seater and 5-seater variants. The EQS 580 exceeded all expectations, selling out within three months of its launch. Deliveries for the 7-seater will resume in April 2025, while the 5-seater variant is set to roll out soon.  The EQS SUV line-up now includes two configurations: the 7-seater EQS 580, ideal for larger families with pets and frequent travel needs and the 5-seater EQS 450, designed for nuclear families who still want generous luggage space,” he added.   

The EQS 450 comes in the electric art line, which distinguishes it from the 7-seater variant. It boasts features like energising air control, advanced luggage capacity and an impressive WLTP-certified range of 820 kilometers, making it one of the longest-range electric SUVs.  

It is priced at INR 12.8 million(ex-showroom). Deliveries will begin in February 2025. 

Look back into 2024

It was reported that Mercedes-Benz India achieved its best-ever sales of 19,565 units during the January to December 2024 period, representing a 12.4 percent increase compared to the 17,408 units sold in the same period in 2023. Growth during the second half of 2024 (July to December) was noted to be a strong 16 percent.

The fastest-growing segment was top-end vehicles (TEVs), which experienced a 30 percent year-to-date (YTD) growth. It was also highlighted that one out of every four Mercedes-Benz cars sold in India in 2024 was a TEV.
Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) also marked its best-ever sales with a 94 percent YTD growth, achieving over 6 percent sales penetration. It was noted that Mercedes-Benz introduced four new BEVs in 2024 namely, EQA 250+, EQB SUV, EQS SUV 580 and the Maybach EQS SUV. This expansion of the BEV portfolio reportedly generated significant customer interest and reinforced Mercedes-Benz’s leadership in the luxury BEV segment by achieving its highest-ever annual BEV sales.  

Moreover, the company achieved the sale of 200,000 cars in India since 1994. It was mentioned that of these, 100,000 cars were sold in just the last six years (2019–2024). 

Mercedes-Benz Financial Services also achieved a portfolio of INR 10 billion in India with over 50 percent penetration. It was stated that every second Mercedes-Benz retailed in India was financed through the service, which also attained an 80 percent insurance penetration rate. 

Road Ahead

The company revealed plans for the launch of eight new models in 2025 with most focusing on BEVs and TEVs to offer consumers the latest products and cutting-edge intuitive technology. The company was also reported to expand its luxury network reach in 2025, planning 20 new luxury outlets supported by a commitment of over INR 4.5 billion in investment from franchise partners over three years.

It was stated that the focus on TEVs extended beyond cars with plans to partner for dedicated stores selling Maybach collection items, the first of which would be opening in Bengaluru.

Mercedes-Benz India announced a collaboration with Tata Cliq Luxury to allow enthusiasts to purchase or gift exclusive Mercedes-Benz collection items online through the ‘House of Mercedes-Benz’. 

To mark the milestone of 200,000 vehicles on Indian roads, Mercedes-Benz reportedly launched several corporate citizenship initiatives. The company committed INR 75 million to road safety initiatives aimed at reducing accidents and fatalities on highways like the ‘Samrudhhi Mahamarg’ and the ‘Nizamabad Corridor’ in Hyderabad.

Additionally, a new retail campaign was launched to celebrate the 200,000 milestone, offering exclusive event invitations to existing customers and a chance for a lucky new customer to attend the F1 race in Monaco.

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  - uthpsl May 04, 2025 20:09 PM

  Mercedes-Benz is redefining luxury and innovation with the all-electric G 580-combining rugged off-road legacy with cutting-edge EV tech. The 4-motor setup, Schöckl-tested toughness, and futuristic features make it a game-changer. Pair that with the EQS 450’s record-breaking range, and it’s clear: the future of electric luxury is already here!

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Japanese auto major Honda Cars India (HCIL) has hit a major manufacturing and export landmark, announcing today that it has surpassed 200,000 cumulative units exported from its Indian operations. This achievement underscores the growing global acceptance of Honda's 'Made-in-India' models and reinforces the country's strength as a premium automotive manufacturing hub.

The celebrated milestone has been significantly fuelled by two key models: the Honda City sedan and the new mid-size SUV, the Honda Elevate, which together account for 78 percent of the total export volume.

Honda's export journey from India began with smaller volumes sent to neighbouring markets. The pace has accelerated dramatically in recent years:

• The first 50,000 units were exported primarily to SAARC, South Africa and SADC countries up until 2021.
• The next 50,000 units were reached in the subsequent two-and-a-half years, with exports expanding to Left Hand Drive markets like the Middle East, Mexico and Turkey for the Honda City.
• The most recent 100,000 units were achieved in just the last two years, driven by massive demand for the Elevate in new markets, including Japan, South America and Caribbean nations.

Kunal Behl, Vice-President, Marketing & Sales, Honda Cars India, said, “Achieving 200,000 export units fills Honda Cars India with immense pride. This milestone underscores the global recognition of our India-made cars. It also reflects the dedication of our skilled teams and robust manufacturing capabilities. Exports are an integral part of HCIL’s business and revenue strategy, and we remain committed to strengthening this area going forward. We are dedicated to the ‘Make in India’ initiative, serving both our domestic market and global customers.”

Over the years, HCIL has exported vehicles to 33 countries. The largest recipient markets include: Japan – 30 percent, South Africa and SADC countries – 26 percent, Mexico - 19 percent and Turkey – 16 percent.

While the City and Elevate are the current leaders, the remaining 22 percent of the total export volume includes a diverse portfolio of models, such as the Brio, Amaze, Jazz, BR-V, Mobilio, City e:HEV, Accord and CR-V.

The Honda Elevate has been key to expanding HCIL's global footprint, driving a significant portion of the most recent export growth.

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Volkswagen UK has appointed Simon Lynch to the position of Head of Fleet Sales, effective 8 December 2025. This appointment finalises a recent restructuring of the UK team, which also includes Kevin Rendell assuming responsibility for Network Sales and Owen Shepherd moving to become Head of Product and Planning.

Lynch joins from his current role as Head of Aftersales Retailer Operations at Volkswagen Group UK. Since first joining Volkswagen Group UK in 2006, he has built a comprehensive background, holding various positions in finance, network risk, product marketing and sales, including a prior role as Head of Aftersales for Škoda.

Rod McLeod, Director, Volkswagen UK, said, “I am pleased to welcome Simon to the Volkswagen UK team and to complete my leadership team reshuffle. The next few years will be especially exciting for Volkswagen, with the launches of the ID. Polo and new T-Roc, and fleet customers are more important than ever to our brand evolution. I’m looking forward to leading the new team into 2026 and beyond.”

Lynch said, “I’m looking forward to returning to the Volkswagen brand and heading up the Fleet Sales team. Both the brand and the fleet market are in an exciting phase of change, with electrification, digitalisation and the way people buy and use cars all evolving at pace. Volkswagen has a fantastic team and I’m delighted to be playing my part in developing the UK’s best-selling brand.”

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Volkswagen Group UK has announced the appointment of Catherine Baker to its Board of Management as the new Director of One Aftersales. She will be taking over from Sylvain Charbonnier, who is leaving the UK after a four-year tenure to assume a new position within the global Volkswagen Group.

Bringing three decades of automotive industry expertise to the role, Baker has a strong commercial and strategic background. She originally joined the UK division in 2018 and has since occupied several senior positions, including her most recent role as Head of Group Parts Operations. Her career prior to Volkswagen included experience at Mercedes-Benz. Baker is also recognised as an influential advocate for diversity and inclusion within the company.

In her new capacity, she will lead the One Aftersales division, which manages all post-sale activities for the Group's five brands: SEAT, CUPRA, Škoda, Volkswagen Passenger Cars and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. The department’s responsibilities extend beyond daily service operations to encompass business development, the parts supply chain and technical support functions.

Damien O’Sullivan, Managing Director, Volkswagen Group UK, said, “I’m delighted to welcome Catherine to the Board and look forward to working with her in developing the next generation of aftersales propositions. I’d like to thank Sylvain for his considerable contribution and wish him well for his future in the Volkswagen Group.”

Baker said, “I’m excited to be joining the board of management at such a pivotal time. The move to electrification and digitalisation as well as evolving consumer expectations are changing the way we do business and look after our customers. I’m looking forward to taking over from Sylvain and leading the One Aftersales team into the next decade.”

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MINI India, part of the German luxury brand BMW Group, has announced that it will open the pre-launch bookings for the all-new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman ALL4 on 22 September 2025.

The MINI John Cooper Works models are known for their exhilarating performance. The Countryman ALL4 will come with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine. Thanks to its all-wheel drive system, the new MINI JCW Countryman ALL4 is also very capable off the road and will be launched in India on 14 October 2025.

At present, the company has set up 11 authorised MINI dealerships in India, including Bird Automotive (Delhi & Gurugram), Bavaria Motors (Pune), EVM Autokraft (Kochi), Gallops Autohaus (Ahmedabad), Infinity Cars (Mumbai), Krishna Automobiles (Chandigarh), KUN Exclusive (Chennai), KUN Exclusive (Hyderabad), KUN Exclusive (Bengaluru) and OSL Prestige (Kolkata).

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