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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Kia India recorded wholesale dispatches of 28,200 units in July 2026, marking a 27.4 percent increase compared to 22,135 units sold last year.

Interestingly, last month the automaker clocked its highest July wholesale volume since commencing operations in India.

The company attributed the sales performance to the Seltos and Sonet SUVs. The Seltos has maintained monthly dispatch averages above 10,000 units since January, with year-to-date growth standing at 75.7 percent. On the other hand, Sonet saw its sales rise 34.5 percent for YTD CY2026.

Atul Sood, Senior Vice-President – Sales & Marketing, Kia India, said, “Our best-ever July wholesale performance reflects the continued trust of our customers and the strong acceptance of Kia's diverse product portfolio. Building on our record H1 performance, we have maintained healthy momentum across key segments. Led by the strong performance of the Seltos and Sonet, we have seen healthy demand across Carens Clavis and MY26 Syros. Meanwhile, the Carens Clavis EV continues to strengthen our presence in the electric mobility space. We are delighted by the customer response to the newly launched Syros EV. Its segment-leading range, advanced technology, industry-leading ownership benefits and expanding EV ecosystem reflect our commitment to delivering practical and future-ready mobility solutions for Indian customers. We remain focused on strengthening our product portfolio and enhancing the ownership experience as we continue our growth journey.”

In the electric vehicle segment, Kia India recently introduced the Syros EV, featuring an ARAI-certified range of 526 km, 171 PS power output, Level 2 autonomous driver assistance systems with 16 functions and a 39-minute fast-charging capability from 10 to 80 percent. The model joins the Carens Clavis EV in Kia's electric lineup.

At present, the company operates a retail and service network comprising 905 touchpoints across 412 cities in India, supported by 135 Certified Pre-Owned vehicle outlets.

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Honda Cars India (HCIL), a leading passenger vehicle manufacturer, has announced its wholesale sales of 8,284 units for July 2026, up 10 percent YoY, as compared to 7,524 units sold last year.

In the domestic market, the company sold 6,014 units, up 48 percent YoY, as compared to 4,050 units last year. Exports came at 2,270 units, a decline of 35 percent YoY, as compared to 3,473 units.

Kunal Behl, Vice-President, Marketing & Sales, Honda Cars India, said, “Our sales performance with over 48 percent growth in domestic sales in July’ 26 reflects the positive momentum we are building across our portfolio. The encouraging response to the recently introduced new City and the launch of the Honda ZR-V has further strengthened customer interest in the brand, while Honda Elevate and Honda Amaze continue to deliver robust sales backed by their strong value proposition and customer trust. With the onset of the festive season, we are confident that our strengthened portfolio and customer-focused initiatives will help us sustain this momentum in the months ahead.”

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Maruti Suzuki India, the country’s largest passenger vehicle manufacturer, has reported its wholesales for July 2026, selling 241,421 units, marking a 34 percent YoY growth, as compared to 180,526 units sold last year.

In the domestic market, the company sold 196,203 passenger vehicles, up 42 percent YoY, as compared to 137,776 units last year. Commercial vehicle sales came at 3,920 units, as compared to 2,794 units.

Sales to other OEMs (Toyota Kirloskar Motor) came at 11,242 units, up 37 percent YoY, as compared to 8,211 units.

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Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM), one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has announced its wholesale sales for July 2026.

The company sold 29,159 units in the domestic market, marking a 5 percent YoY growth, as compared to 29,159 units sold last year.

Sabari Manohar, Executive Vice-President, Sales-Service-Used Car Business, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “We registered a steady performance in July, reflecting sustained customer confidence in the Toyota brand. The result underscores our continued focus on delivering reliable, innovative and customer-centric mobility solutions. A key highlight during the month was the launch of the all-new Toyota Hilux, which further strengthens our SUV portfolio in India and reflects our commitment to offering aspirational, future-ready mobility solutions that cater to evolving customer needs. We remain focused on creating greater value for our customers and stakeholders.”

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