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.

Comments (1)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

• 

  - 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!

  Reply

Hyundai Motor India (HMIL), one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has announced the appointment of Tarun Garg as its next Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 January 2026, subject to shareholder approval.

This makes Garg the first Indian national to take on this leadership role in the company since Hyundai Motor India’s establishment 29 years ago.

Garg currently serves as the Whole-time Director and COO of HMIL, and will succeed Unsoo Kim, who is set to return to a strategic role at Hyundai Motor Company (HMC), South Korea.

Jose Munoz, President and CEO, Hyundai Motor Company, said, “Tarun’s appointment as the first Indian national to lead HMIL is a defining moment in our nearly three-decade history. He is a transformative leader who brings a progressive vision combined with deep understanding of the Indian market. Under his guidance as COO, HMIL achieved record sales for three consecutive years, record-breaking profits and completed India's largest IPO in 2024. He is a people-first leader who understands that success happens when you treat customers like honoured guests, empower your teams and invest for the long term. I would also like to thank Unsoo for his hard work and dedication in helping lay the foundation for the success HMIL enjoys today. We wish you luck on your next assignment.”

Unsoo Kim, said, “Having worked closely with Tarun over the years, I have witnessed firsthand his unwavering commitment and visionary thinking, qualities that have played a pivotal role in shaping and executing the core initiatives driving HMIL’s growth in India. I hold the utmost confidence in Tarun’s exceptional intellect and foresight, and I am confident that under his stewardship, HMIL will continue to ascend to even greater heights.”

Commenting on his elevation, Garg, expressed, “I am deeply honoured by the trust and confidence placed in me by Hyundai Motor Group. India’s automotive sector is in an exciting phase of transformation and I aim to contribute to HMIL’s continued growth in this market by stepping into this role. Success in this industry demands excellence across every touchpoint, from design and engineering to manufacturing, sales and service and I am fortunate to work alongside Hyundai’s talented employees, dealer partners and supplier partners who make it all possible. Together, we will stay focused on strengthening HMIL’s legacy of customer delight and loyalty built over past 29 years, ensuring our journey continues to shape the future of mobility and build lasting connections in India.”

Going forward, Garg’s focus will be on four key pillars: Future Strategy Focussed, Market & People Centred, Customer Orientation and further Impetus to Make in India. This strategy will aim to strengthen customer satisfaction, build a supply chain and establish India as a global export hub for mobility solutions.

Garg has over three decades of industry experience and had been instrumental to lead Hyundai Motor India to its highest-ever sales for three consecutive years, delivered record-breaking profits and achieved the highest EBITDA margin in FY2024. He was the Chief Orchestrator of HMIL’s Initial Public Offering (IPO) in 2024, which was the largest public offering in the history of the Indian equity markets.

He is also credited to have spearheaded digital transformation through the MyHyundai app for customers and HSMART for dealers. He also launched “Samarth by Hyundai,” an initiative for people with disabilities in India.

Prior to joining Hyundai Motor India in 2019, Garg held roles at Maruti Suzuki India (MSIL), including Executive Director of Marketing, Logistics, Parts, and Accessories. He holds a Mechanical Engineering degree from Delhi Technological University and an MBA from the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Lucknow.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

The new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman All4 has officially arrived in India, making its debut at the Buddh International Circuit. This high-performance SUV is now available for booking through MINI’s authorised dealerships across the country and will be offered as a completely built-up unit, with customer deliveries set to begin shortly.

Priced from INR 6,490,000 (ex-showroom), this model represents the most potent MINI ever introduced to the Indian market. Its performance is driven by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder TwinPower Turbo petrol engine that generates 300 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque. This power enables a remarkable 0 to 100 kmph sprint in just 5.4 seconds, cementing its status as the brand's fastest offering in India, with an electronically limited top speed of 250 kmph. Power is managed by a 7-Speed Double Clutch Steptronic Sport Transmission and an intelligent all-wheel-drive system, ensuring precise power distribution for both on-road agility and off-road capability. A dedicated Boost function provides immediate access to peak performance for dynamic driving situations.

The vehicle's design boldly communicates its performance character. It features a redesigned octagonal grille, distinctive LED headlights and a newly styled JCW logo. Exterior highlights include contrasting roof and mirror cap options, sporty Chili Red accents, a quad exhaust system and standard 19-inch JCW alloy wheels. The interior continues this sporty yet sophisticated theme with JCW-specific sports seats, a premium steering wheel with aluminium paddles and a minimalist cockpit design focused on the driver. Practicality is a key strength, thanks to an adjustable rear seat and a versatile luggage compartment that expands from 500 to 1,450 litres, complemented by a panoramic glass roof.

Technology is seamlessly integrated through a central OLED display running the MINI Operating System 9, which supports touch and voice commands via the ‘Hey MINI’ personal assistant. A unique Toggle Bar consolidates key driving controls and sits above a wireless smartphone charging area. The cabin experience is further enhanced by a head-up display, a Harman Kardon sound system and an innovative fisheye camera for capturing in-car moments. The driving experience can be personalised through various Experience Modes, which alter the vehicle's ambient lighting, sound and graphics.

Safety and assistance are comprehensive, featuring front and side curtain airbags, Dynamic Stability Control, a 360-degree camera, Park Assist and Comfort Access. The ownership package includes a two-year unlimited kilometre warranty, 24/7 roadside assistance and optional service plans that can be extended up to 10 years. Through BMW India Financial Services, prospective owners can access tailored MINI Smart Finance solutions, with monthly instalments beginning at approximately INR 64,900, which includes an assured buyback option at the end of the term.

Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India, said, “The MINI John Cooper Works Countryman is a masterclass in performance and style, perfectly blending power, adventure and exhilarating drive. Born from the legendary John Cooper Works racing heritage, this car embodies the spirit of motorsport, with performance and precision at its core. Built to excel in every environment, this John Cooper Works is engineered to dominate the track, city streets and rugged terrain alike. With its impressive capabilities and dynamic design, the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman ALL4 is the most powerful MINI ever.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Japanese luxury brand Lexus India has introduced the new Lexus LM 350h limousine in the country.

The LM 350h is claimed to set a benchmark for first-class travel, focusing on a calm and productive experience. Improvements include: An E20-compliant engine, supporting sustainability. Power sliding door switch at the rear console for convenience and intuitive control. Auto-dimming ORVM function for safety and driver comfort in the four-seater variant. A new rear console tray for rear-seat occupants in the four-seater variant.

Hikaru Ikeuchi, President, Lexus India, said, "We are truly humbled by the overwhelming response from our guests to the Lexus LM 350h and wish to sincerely thank our customers for their patience in waiting for this exceptional vehicle. The LM is a testament to our unwavering commitment to luxury, featuring grand interiors and an exclusive private lounge that redefines comfort and sophistication. It sets a new benchmark in first-class luxury travel, offering our guests an unparalleled experience of refinement, prestige and indulgence in India."

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Mercedes-Benz India has fortified the legendary G-Class lineage with the launch of the all-new G 450d, a vehicle distinguished by the most potent diesel engine in the brand's portfolio. This introduction completes a comprehensive powertrain strategy for the iconic SUV in India, now encompassing a diesel, a petrol, and a fully electric model. The G 450d is powered by an advanced 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder diesel engine, augmented by a 48-volt electrical system and an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG). This sophisticated powertrain generates 270 kW and a formidable 750 Nm of torque, propelling the substantial SUV from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 5.8 seconds, with a top speed of 210 kmph.

The model's identity remains deeply rooted in its unparalleled off-road capability, honed over 45 years. Its proven ladder-frame construction, three 100 percent mechanical differential locks and a suspension system combining a double-wishbone independent front setup with a rigid rear axle form the bedrock of its rugged character. Key off-road metrics include a maximum 100 percent gradeability, a fording depth of 70 cm and approach, departure and breakover angles of 31, 30 and 26 degrees respectively. The standard adaptive adjustable damping and the DYNAMIC SELECT system – which includes three dedicated off-road driving programmes – allow drivers to effortlessly tailor the vehicle's character for any terrain. A redesigned Offroad Cockpit in the digital displays provides vital information like steering angle and tyre pressure, while the ‘Transparent Hood’ function offers a virtual view of the terrain ahead.

Visually, the G 450d retains the timeless, commanding silhouette of the G-Class while incorporating subtle yet distinct updates. A new radiator grille with four horizontal louvres and a redesigned front bumper with integrated vertical louvers define the front aspect. The vehicle rides on standard 20-inch AMG alloy wheels, reinforcing its powerful stance.

Inside, the cabin merges traditional robustness with state-of-the-art technology and luxury. The dashboard is dominated by two 12.3-inch screens for the driver and multimedia, housing the latest MBUX NTG7 infotainment system. This system features augmented reality navigation, which superimposes directional cues onto a live video feed, along with wireless smartphone integration. The exclusive MANUFAKTUR programme offers near-limitless personalisation, from unique paint colours to bespoke interior trims, spare wheel rings and decorative stitching. The AMG line interior theme, enhanced by Nappa leather, ambient lighting and an available Burmester 3D surround sound system with Dolby Atmos, creates an exceptionally luxurious environment. Comprehensive noise insulation and acoustic glass ensure exceptional cabin serenity, while a suite of advanced safety features, including Active Brake Assist and a 360-degree camera, provides confidence on every journey.

To celebrate the G-Class heritage, Mercedes-Benz India will soon initiate the exclusive ‘G-Tribe Escapade,’ a curated driving expedition for select customers. This journey will traverse from India to the scenic landscapes of Thimphu, Punakha and Paro, offering a firsthand experience of the vehicle's capabilities.

Santosh Iyer, Managing Director and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, said, "The new G 450d underlines our commitment to offer diesel, petrol and electric powertrain for the first time in India to the G-Class, the longest running nameplate in the automotive industry. The G 450d featuring Mercedes-Benz’s powerful and efficient diesel engine, combines performance with efficiency, reiterating the sustained customer demand for a diesel powertrain in the G-Class. The G 450d ensures Mercedes-Benz now has a ‘G-Class’ for every customer requirement in India, further elevating practicality along with desirability and cult status of this iconic SUV."

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!