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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JSW MG Motor India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has reported that its flagship electric roadster – the MG Cyberster, touted as the world's fastest MG and India's highest-selling sports car has gone home to over 350 customers since its launch in July 2025.

The model sold under the brand's luxury retail channel, MG SELECT, is priced at INR 7.49 million and is now seeing a waiting period of four to five months for new customers.

Milind Shah, Head - MG SELECT, said, “The phenomenal response to the Cyberster from sportscar enthusiasts has been extraordinary, particularly due to its striking design language and innovative features - including the iconic electric scissor doors and impressive acceleration from 0-100 in just 3.2 seconds. This remarkable success underscores that today's buyers are seeking high-performance sports cars that combine sustainable luxury with cutting-edge engineering. We have built a healthy order book and are efficiently working to cater to the current demand and upcoming bookings. From sports champions to movie stars, the Cyberster continues to capture the imagination of new India and its aspirations, drawing the attention of people from different walks of life. Beyond the vehicle itself, we are also creating immersive, curated experiences exclusively for our customers - ensuring that the MG SELECT ownership journey extends far beyond the drive."

The MG Cyberster draws on the heritage of the MGB Roadster. Powered by a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive setup it delivers 510 PS and 725 Nm of torque. A claimed acceleration from zero to 100 kmph in 3.2 seconds. It features electric scissor doors, soft-top roof and a low drag coefficient. In terms of braking power, it gets Brembo 4-piston front brake callipers stop the car from 100 kmph in 33 metres. It sports 20-inch staggered alloy wheels paired with Pirelli P-Zero tyres.

The company said that the combined success of the MG Cyberster and the MG M9 Presidential Limousine has established JSW MG Motor India as the second-largest brand in the Indian luxury EV segment.

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Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers in the country, has launched the all-new Tata Sierra at introductory prices starting INR 1.14 million. The iconic SUV has been introduced in a new avatar as 'Premium' offering in the mid-size segment.

Shailesh Chandra, MD & CEO, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, said, “With the new Sierra, we are setting a new benchmark for what Indian mobility can be. The Tata Sierra stands as a testament to our belief that customers deserve more than the ordinary: they deserve innovation that inspires, design that resonates emotionally, and a premium experience that elevates every journey. This legend returns to inspire pride, express individuality and embrace progress, while enjoying the highest standards of comfort, technology, and safety. The Sierra is our commitment to lead, to challenge conventions, and to deliver an icon that truly moves India forward with purpose and distinction."

Sierra first debuted as a premium SUV offering in the country in 1991. The new model carries forward its identity while updating design, technology, capability and craftsmanship. The new Sierra aims to elevate the mid-size SUV segment by enriching space, comfort, safety and daily usability.

The SUV has already received the Red Dot Design Award and is available with three powertrain options across six versions:

• 1.5-litre direct injection petrol (Hyperion)
• 1.5-litre Revotron petrol
• 1.5-litre Kryojet diesel

The new Sierra has a monocoque design and five doors, unlike the original, which had three. It measures under 4.4 metres in length. In terms of safety, the Sierra gets over 20 ADAS 2+ features, including the ability to read speed signs and inform the driver. Six airbags and a sealed fuel system are standard.

On the inside, it gets tonnes of tech, including a triple screen display system laced with Dolby Atmos audio. Depending on the trim, Nippon-Desay and Harman (JBL) audio systems are available.

The design highlights include the slimmest headlamps in its category, a pillarless design past the B-pillar and a substantial glasshouse. The interior uses soft materials to create a living room feel and draws inspiration from contemporary Indian art. The SUV also offers water wading ability and good approach and departure angles.

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Stellantis-owned French auto brand Citroen India and Milo Drive have signed an MoU to deploy 500 units of the Citroen e-C3 electric car.

Milo Drive operates ‘Fleet OS’, a platform that supports driver entrepreneurs and local fleet operators in managing cars across ride-hailing, travel and corporate mobility platforms.

The collaboration combines Citroen’s engineering with Milo Drive’s technology, which includes demand routing, utilisation analytics and driver performance tech. This is designed to create a scalable ecosystem.

Shishir Mishra, Business Head & Director - Strategic Partnerships & Institutional Business, Stellantis India, said, “Scaling electric mobility in India requires strong, future-ready partnerships, and our collaboration with Milo Drive reflects exactly that. The Citroen e-C3 offers the ideal balance of range, comfort and operating efficiency making it a proven performer for shared mobility. Together, we are enabling EV access at scale and contributing meaningfully to India’s transition toward a low-carbon mobility ecosystem.”

Monil Jayeshkumar Khatri, Co-Founder, Milo Drive, said, “With Citroen, we’re blending affordability with intelligence. Their support extends beyond vehicles to real-time battery insights and performance data; helping us further enable hundreds of entrepreneurs to build and run their own mobility businesses through Milo Drive’s tech platform. This collaboration is a significant milestone in our journey to electrify India’s urban mobility landscapes.”

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Spinny, a used car retail platform, has opened new car parks in Sonipat, Karnal and Ambala, increasing its presence in North India. The expansion gives customers in these cities and surrounding regions access to the company’s collection of inspected used cars.

The new car parks are located along the GT Road corridor, improving regional accessibility for customers across the North region.

The new parks function as single destinations where customers can explore, test drive, buy, or sell cars. The expansion aims to serve growing demand for pre-owned vehicles along this corridor, complementing Spinny’s customer base in Delhi NCR and Chandigarh.

Hanish Yadav, Senior Vice-President, Spinny, said, “With our new parks in Sonipat, Karnal and Amabala, we’re excited to bring Spinny’s trusted car experience closer to our customers. These parks not only expand our reach but also make it easier for customers to explore our 200-point inspected cars in person. At Spinny, we’re committed to making every step of buying or selling a car transparent, comfortable, and filled with joy.”

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