Summary
- The Mercedes G 580 with EQ Technology is the first electric Popemobile
- Fisker was supposed to supply an Ocean as the first electric Popemobile
- The electric G-Class is the first electric Popemobile, but not the first EV in the Vatican’s fleet
- The G-Class Popemobile has been part of the Vatican fleet for decades and is now going electric
- Mercedes presented Pope Francis with the first official electric Popemobile based on the G 580 with EQ Technology, which features a quad-motor powertrain and unique modifications for papal appearances
Article
Mercedes-Benz has a long history of supplying vehicles to the Vatican, with the latest addition being the first electric Popemobile. The all-electric G 580 with EQ Technology was presented to Pope Francis as the latest in a line of Mercedes G-Class Popemobiles that have been used by the Vatican for decades. This new electric version is set to debut at the 2025 Jubilee in Rome, featuring a quad-motor powertrain that produces 579 horsepower and 859 lb-ft of torque.
The electric G-Class Popemobile is a significant milestone for Mercedes-Benz and the Vatican, marking the first time that an electric vehicle will be used in an official capacity for public appearances by the Pope. Although Fisker was originally set to supply an Ocean as the first electric Popemobile, Mercedes stepped in to provide the all-electric G-Class. With a long history of supplying cars to the Vatican, Mercedes has a strong connection with the Vatican and has provided various vehicles to the Pope over the years.
Over the years, Mercedes-Benz has supplied several Popemobiles to the Vatican, including modified G-Class SUVs that feature elevated seating platforms and armored glass enclosures for the pontiff. The electric G-Class Popemobile continues this tradition, with the latest technology and design features to ensure the safety and comfort of the Pope during public appearances. This new electric version is designed to provide a smooth and efficient driving experience while maintaining the traditional appearance of previous Popemobiles.
The electric G-Class Popemobile features a retuned powertrain for low-speed driving during papal appearances, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride for the Pope. The vehicle has been modified with an open seating area, a cutout for ingress and egress, and a pearl white paint job with matching upholstery. Despite being the first electric Popemobile, the G-Class is not the first electric vehicle in the Vatican fleet, as General Motors and Renault have also presented the Pope with electric cars in the past.
The Vatican has previously been hesitant to use electric cars for official events, but the introduction of the electric G-Class Popemobile marks a significant shift towards more sustainable transportation options. With its quad-motor powertrain and advanced features, the electric G-Class is expected to be a reliable and efficient choice for the Pope’s public appearances. Mercedes-Benz’s long-standing relationship with the Vatican makes them a trusted supplier of vehicles for the Pope, ensuring that the all-electric G-Class Popemobile will meet the highest standards of performance and safety.
In conclusion, the introduction of the first electric Popemobile by Mercedes-Benz marks a significant milestone in the partnership between the automaker and the Vatican. The electric G-Class with EQ Technology will provide the Pope with a modern, efficient, and environmentally friendly vehicle for his public appearances. With a long history of supplying vehicles to the Vatican, Mercedes-Benz has once again demonstrated its commitment to providing high-quality and innovative transportation solutions for the Pope and his entourage.
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