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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Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM), one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has handed over a 10-hectare ecological restoration project in the Herbivore Safari Zone of Bannerghatta Biological Park to the Zoo Authority of Karnataka. The initiative is part of the company's ‘Harmony with Nature – Green Wave’ projects and its commitment to biodiversity and sustainability.

The restoration involved weed removal and the planting of native saplings to improve habitat quality and forage availability. Protective measures include solar fencing, which will remain around the area for two years to prevent grazing on the new plantings. The project also includes a borewell equipped with a solar-powered pumping system to provide water during dry seasons.

A V Surya Sen, Executive Director of Bannerghatta Biological Park, said, “Public-private partnerships play a crucial role in strengthening conservation efforts across Karnataka. This initiative by Toyota Kirloskar Motor demonstrates how the industry can actively contribute to restoring ecosystems and enhancing wildlife habitats. The integration of renewable energy solutions further reflects a responsible and sustainable approach to environmental stewardship.”

B Padmanabha, Executive Vice-President & Director, Manufacturing, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “At TKM, we believe that biodiversity conservation is a fundamental pillar of sustainable development. This project reflects our commitment to the Harmony with Nature initiative under the Toyota Environmental Challenge 2050. By implementing scientific weed management, native afforestation, protective measures for young plantations, and renewable-energy-powered infrastructure, we seek to restore ecological balance and foster a resilient, self-sustaining ecosystem.”

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European automaker Renault India has launched the Duster Adventure Edition, with prices beginning at INR 1.29 million (ex-showroom). The vehicle was unveiled by Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India and Stephane Deblaise, CEO, Renault Group India.

The Adventure edition is available in three powertrain options: Turbo TCe 100 MT, Turbo TCe 160 MT and Turbo TCe 160 DCT. Exterior features include decals with topographical contour lines and the geographical coordinates of Leh. On the inside, the vehicle includes floor mats and various technology and convenience features.

Stephane Deblaise, CEO, Renault Group India, said, "Iconic vehicles are remembered not simply for what they do, but for the place they earn in people's lives. Duster belongs to that rare category. Over the years, it became part of countless journeys and lasting memories for customers across India. The Adventure Edition celebrates the enduring connection that people continue to have with the Duster nameplate."

The new prices are as follows: Adventure Turbo TCe 100 MT at INR 1.29 million, Adventure Turbo TCe 160 MT at INR 1.39 million and Adventure Turbo TCe 160 DCT at INR 1.53 million, ex-showroom, respectively.

The Duster comes with Full LED headlamps and 43.18cm (17-inch) alloy wheels, electric panoramic sunroof, electric powered tailgate and automatic dual zone air conditioning.

On the inside, it gets 25.65cm (10.1-inch) multimedia system and connected car services via the My Renault app. And Adventure Branding on the decals, embellishers and floor mats.

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German luxury carmaker Mercedes-Benz India has announced personnel changes within its sales and marketing division, effective from 1 September 2026. These appointments reflect the company’s focus on using real-time data, artificial intelligence and the integration of retail finance into the customer journey.

The company has announced that Nandita Godbole, currently General Manager of the Digital Customer Unit, will become Head of Marketing, succeeding Amrit Baid, who will transition to lead the Retail Finance and Pre-Owned Cars business.

Sanjay Kochar, currently General Manager of TEV & BEV Sales, will succeed Jamsheed Bhadha as General Manager of Product Planning & Sales Planning, who will move to a new position within Mercedes-Benz in Dubai.

Brendon Sissing, Vice-President of Sales & Marketing at Mercedes-Benz India, said, “Our people remain the driving force behind Mercedes-Benz’s customer-centricity and sustained success. These organisational changes reinforce our commitment to creating exceptional customer experiences using real-time data strategies, AI deployment, and integrated business capabilities, while building future-ready leaders by offering a broader cross-functional exposure to our talents. We thank our colleagues for their invaluable contributions and unwavering passion in making Mercedes-Benz the most desirable luxury brand. We wish them continued success in their new roles as they will shape the next chapter of our innovation-led growth.”

Godbole has held previous roles in marketing, retail sales, and the digital customer unit. In her new capacity, she will focus on using real-time data and predictive insights to manage customer interactions.

Baid will oversee the retail finance division, which currently holds a portfolio exceeding INR 150 billion and supports more than 50 percent of the company's total car sales.

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Spinny, one of the leading used-car selling and buying marketplaces, has partnered with the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) for the 5th Finance & Insurance (F&I) Summit 2026 in Mumbai.

The event brought together representatives from banking, insurance and the automotive retail sector to discuss vehicle ownership and the dealership industry.

The summit focused on wholesale finance, retail finance and insurance. It included the release of the 3rd edition of the FADA Dealer Satisfaction Study, which surveyed over 700 dealerships across India. The findings showed improvements in satisfaction regarding finance and insurance, while highlighting requirements for training and funding for the used-vehicle market.

Spinny highlighted its technology initiatives, including Spinny Circle, which enables dealerships to digitise vehicle exchange, inspections and valuations to manage working capital. The company operates a network across 80 cities, using inspection and refurbishment centres to support its exchange and retail operations.

Gurveen Bedi, Senior Vice-President, Spinny, said, "India's automotive ecosystem is evolving rapidly, making collaboration across financing, insurance, vehicle exchange and technology more important than ever. Through our continued partnership with FADA, we are bringing together every stakeholder across the value chain to foster meaningful dialogue, encourage innovation and address shared industry challenges. As organised used-car retail continues to grow, trusted partnerships and technology-led solutions will play an increasingly important role in building a more transparent, efficient and future-ready automotive ecosystem that creates long-term value for dealers, financial institutions and customers alike."

C S Vigneshwar, President, FADA, said, "If an automobile dealership were a human body, the OEM is our heart, pumping the product lifeblood. Wholesale finance is the bloodstream – the working capital that must flow freely to keep the body energetic. Retail finance is our legs, allowing the customer to walk out with a vehicle, while insurance is our immune system, protecting us when the unexpected occurs. The dealer is the face the customer trusts, but you cannot have a healthy face on an unhealthy body. It takes all four of us – the OEM, the financier, the insurer and the dealer – working in a perfect relay to keep the customer."

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