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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Zenvo Automotive, a manufacturer of limited-edition hypercars based in Præstø, Denmark, has appointed Mark Harrison as its new Chief Commercial Officer, bringing in a seasoned expert from the premium and performance car sector. His arrival marks a significant step in the company’s ambitious growth strategy as it prepares for the final development phase of its highly anticipated V12 Aurora hypercar. Harrison will oversee all commercial operations, including sales, marketing, public relations, global events and the expansion of the dealer network, working closely with the established leadership team comprising Chairman Jens Sverdrup, Chief Technical Officer Jon Gunner and Design Director Christian Brandt.

With three decades of industry experience, Harrison joins Zenvo from Praga Cars, having previously held influential management roles at McLaren Automotive and BMW Group, including its MINI division. His comprehensive understanding of the luxury automotive landscape is expected to be instrumental as the company moves towards the Aurora’s launch. Harrison’s appointment reinforces the management structure during this critical period, ensuring the commercial strategy aligns with the final engineering and design efforts to bring the new hypercar to market.

Jens Sverdrup, Chairman, Zenvo Automotive, said, “It is great to welcome Mark to the team, and to benefit from his experience and insight of the industry. We have known each other for many years, and our professional paths have crossed on several occasions, so I know first-hand what an impact he will be able to make. We are at an exciting part of the programme, and this appointment also highlights, once again, the talent that this project is attracting as we gear up for the launch of Aurora.”

Harrison said, “It’s really exciting to join Zenvo’s team and help bring to market a truly exceptional car in both its design and technical specification. I have admired the brand since the Aurora was announced and especially how the programme is pushing the boundaries in such a competitive sector. I have shared offices, showrooms, show stands and factories with great teams wherever I have worked, but this will be my first V12. I feel privileged to now have an opportunity to work together with this strong and passionate team helping bring this stunning car to market later this year.”

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Renault has unveiled the name of its latest show-car, the Bridger Concept, as part of its continued international expansion. This model serves as a precursor to a forthcoming production vehicle, specifically an urban SUV designed with new dimensions to accommodate the evolving needs of city-dwelling families.

The Bridger Concept stands out with its bold and robust design, featuring surprisingly compact proportions. Measuring under four metres in length, it maximises interior space, demonstrating that a smaller footprint does not necessitate a compromise on roominess. The name itself, derived from the English word ‘bridge’, was chosen for its connotations of strength, connection and linkage. This choice highlights the vehicle's assertive styling and reinforces the brand's commitment to fostering human connections within the cabin, a core aspect of its ‘voitures à vivre’ philosophy.

A comprehensive reveal of the Bridger Concept is scheduled for 10 March 2026. This unveiling will occur during the presentation of Renault Group's futuREady strategic plan, with the entire event being streamed live from the company's official events platform.

Explaining the thinking behind the name of the new show-car, Sylvia dos Santos, Head of Naming Strategy with Renault's Global Marketing Division, said, “With Renault Bridger, we are adding to our family of names based on English words.  This one comes from the word 'bridge', with the letters 'ER' added for identification. The name Renault Bridger is part of the same approach as the name of Renault Duster. It’s a powerful, robust and versatile name, ideal to identify our new urban SUV show-car and open a new page in our international offensive!”

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Axis Bank has announced its appointment as a preferred financer for Tesla in India, which will see the company provide financing solutions for customers purchasing Tesla vehicles as part of a nationwide rollout.

The collaboration covers major metropolitan areas and emerging electric vehicle (EV) hubs. The initiative is designed to integrate with Tesla’s global ownership model by using digital onboarding to manage the purchase journey.

Axis Bank has developed specific auto-loan products for the premium EV segment. These offerings focus on repayment flexibility and digital processing speeds.

It includes loan tenure options extending up to 10 years. Customised structures designed to align with individual customer cash flows. A fully digital onboarding process intended to reduce sanction turnaround times. Coverage across all-India locations to support Tesla’s market entry.

Munish Sharda, Executive Director, Axis Bank, said, “As electric mobility gains momentum in India, Axis Bank is proud to collaborate with Tesla to help accelerate this transition. Through this collaboration, we are bringing together world-class electric vehicles with innovative, tailored financing solutions and seamless customer engagement. This makes it easier for customers to adopt sustainable mobility without compromising on convenience or flexibility. This initiative reflects our continued focus on responsible banking and future-ready solutions.”

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Vietnamese electric vehicle brand VinFast has announced the completion of its strategic restructuring into three automotive brand lines. The company officially unveiled two flagship models, the Lac Hong 800S and the Lac Hong 900S, to head its ultra-luxury marque.

The restructuring divides the portfolio into the Lac Hong ultra-luxury line, the VF passenger vehicle range and the Green commercial mobility brand. VinFast has maintained a leadership position in Vietnam for 16 consecutive months, delivering 175,099 vehicles in 2025.

The three brands target different market segments to support the company's next phase of development:

• Lac Hong: Comprises the 900 LX, 900S, and 800S models.
• VF: Includes a portfolio of passenger EVs from the VF 3 to the VF 9 and the VF MPV 7.
• Green: Developed for commercial mobility, featuring the Limo Green, Herio Green, Nerio Green and Minio Green models.

The new Lac Hong 800S and 900S models use design elements inspired by Vietnamese heritage, such as a grille with vertical slats and emblems evoking the Lac bird. Interior materials include Nappa leather, wood and gold-plated accents.

They are equipped with a tri-motor system with one front motor and two rear motors; a combined output of 460 kW and a fully active suspension system for ride comfort and stability.

On the inside, it gets executive seating and power-assisted doors. The 900S includes a privacy partition, a projection entertainment system and a workstation.

The Lac Hong 800S and 900S are scheduled for commercial launch in 2027.

At present, VinFast operates manufacturing facilities in Vietnam and India, with planned operations in the United States. The facility in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, represents a USD 500 million investment and is designed to produce 150,000 vehicles annually.

Duong Thi Thu Trang, Deputy CEO of Global Automotives, VinFast, said, “Following a period of accelerated growth - achieving the No.1 position in Vietnam and establishing our presence in key regional markets - the completion of our three-brand structure lays the foundation for our next phase of development: structured, professional and breakthrough-driven. The Lac Hong 800S and 900S stand as further proof of VinFast’s technological mastery, product development capability and advanced manufacturing expertise. We believe products created by Vietnamese intellect, craftsmanship and resilience not only inspire national pride but also convey a powerful message about Vietnam’s cultural heritage and technological stature in this new era of global advancement.”

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