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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Mumbai-headquartered automotive major Mahindra & Mahindra has introduced the Thar Roxx Star EDN at prices starting INR 1.68 million for the diesel variant (manual transmission), INR 1.78 million for the petrol variant (automatic transmission) and INR 1.83 million for the diesel automatic.

This marks the expansion of the Thar Roxx range, which now features updated design elements on the interior and exterior.

The new variant incorporates a piano black front grille and matching R19 alloy wheels to update the appearance. The model introduces a Citrine Yellow colour option alongside existing shades of Tango Red, Everest White and Stealth Black.

The interior features black leatherette seats with suede accents. Standard cabin features include ventilated front seats, a sliding armrest and a 26.03-cm HD touchscreen infotainment system. The technology suite comprises a digital instrument cluster, a nine-speaker Harman Kardon audio system and Adrenox connected car features with Alexa integration. For safety, the vehicle is equipped with six airbags, a surround-view camera, and parking sensors at the front and rear.

The Thar Roxx Star EDN retains the engine options from the standard range, featuring the G20 TGDi mStallion petrol engine and the D22 mHawk diesel engine. The petrol unit produces 130 kW and 380 Nm of torque, while the diesel engine delivers 128.6 kW and 400 Nm. These variants are available with a rear-wheel-drive system and a choice of manual or automatic transmissions.

The SUV is built on the M_GLYDE body-on-frame platform and includes selectable terrain modes for snow, sand, and mud. It also features a brake locking differential to assist in various driving conditions.

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Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles (TMPV) has launched petrol and twin-cylinder CNG versions of the Xpres sedan to broaden its fleet-specific offerings. The petrol model is priced from INR 559,000, while the CNG variant starts at INR 659,000 (ex-showroom Delhi).

This expansion follows the introduction of the Xpres EV and is intended to provide a range of powertrains for commercial operators, including cab aggregators, airport transfers, and tourist services.

The Xpres CNG features a 70-litre water capacity fuel tank using twin-cylinder technology. This configuration is intended to maximise travel range while maintaining boot space, a factor that has previously limited luggage capacity in gas-powered vehicles. The petrol variant provides a boot capacity of 419 litres. Both models are powered by a 1.2-litre Revotron engine paired with a manual transmission, designed for the duty cycles required in professional mobility.

The company has stated that the maintenance cost for these vehicles is INR 0.47 per kilometre. To support fleet owners, Tata Motors has established dealerships in selected cities dedicated to commercial sales and service. These facilities are intended to provide faster vehicle turnaround and support.

The vehicles come with a standard warranty of three years or 100,000 km, which can be extended to five years or 180,000 km. The manufacturer has also introduced finance solutions specifically for fleet purchasers to assist with the acquisition of the petrol and CNG models.

Vivek Srivatsa, Chief Commercial Officer, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility, said, “Tata Xpres was created to address the real operating challenges faced by fleet customers, including passengers and owners. Responding to the needs of our fleet customers, we are elated to introduce the first-in-segment 70-litre twin-cylinder CNG variant with best-in-segment usable boot space, alongside a petrol variant with the largest boot space. Built on our proven 1.2-litre Revotron powertrain and supported by long-term warranty, tailored finance and dedicated fleet dealerships, Tata Xpres fleet with its complete range of electric and ICE powertrains will offer a complete, future-ready mobility platform to our customers, in turn expanding our market share across India’s commercial mobility landscape.”

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Volkswagen India has started the local assembly of the Tayron R-Line SUV at its manufacturing facility in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. The commencement of production aligns with the company's schedule to launch the vehicle within the first quarter of 2026. This move follows the global debut of the model less than a year ago and forms part of the brand’s strategy to expand its SUV portfolio in the Indian market.

The facility in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar is now producing the model to ensure readiness for the upcoming commercial release.

The SUV occupies a position as a premium offering within the Volkswagen India line-up. Its introduction aims to address demand for larger vehicles that provide both space and practicality. The local assembly process allows the company to manage its supply chain and operational readiness as it prepares for the official market entry.

Piyush Arora, MD & CEO, Skoda Auto Volkswagen India, said, “The start of production for another world-class model - the Tayron R-Line at our Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar facility represents a strategic step forward for Volkswagen India's SUV portfolio. This milestone reflects our unwavering commitment to putting the customer at the heart of our engineering, ensuring every detail resonates with the lifestyle and aspirations of our patrons. We aim to deliver a distinctive choice for premium SUV customers while reinforcing our operational strength and readiness to meet the evolving expectations of the Indian automotive market.”

Nitin Kohli, Brand Director, Volkswagen Passenger Cars India, added, “We believe there is a strong demand for premium German-engineered cars here in India and our plan is to make these cars more accessible to our customers. The Tayron R-Line has rolled-off the production line today at the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar plant, in less than a year since its global launch and that is our level of commitment to driving growth in India.”

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MG Select, the luxury vehicle brand from JSW MG Motor India, has introduced a signature exterior finish for the MG Cyberster named Irises Cyan. The blue-green hue is designed to highlight the aerodynamic profile of the roadster, which serves as the brand's performance flagship.

The MG Cyberster references the design of the MG B Roadster through its proportions and silhouette. Key features of the vehicle include electric scissor doors and a soft-top roof. This model is positioned within the luxury performance segment, focusing on the integration of heritage design with contemporary engineering.

The introduction of Irises Cyan expands the existing colour palette for the Cyberster. At present, the vehicle is available in dual-tone options, including Nuclear Yellow and Flare Red with black roofs. Other combinations include Andes Grey and Modern Beige, which are paired with red roofs to contrast with the vehicle's bodywork.

The colour choices are intended to complement the car's proportions and performance identity. Each finish is selected to offer a degree of individuality for customers within the luxury automotive market.

Milind Shah, Head - MG SELECT, JSW MG Motor India, said, “MG Cyberster's Irises Cyan goes beyond a colour choice. It brings out a sense of confidence and creativity while reflecting the car’s progressive character and staying true to its performance driven DNA. At MG SELECT, design guides every decision we make. Each addition is intentionally developed to offer greater individuality and a heightened sense of luxury, allowing customers to build a stronger personal connection with their Cyberster.”

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