On Wednesday, Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius visited the Vatican to personally welcome Pope Francis and hand over the keys to the Pontiff’s new Popemobile, which is a modified version of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class.
The base model for this Popemobile is an electric G 580 outfitted with EQ Technology, marking it as the first of its kind to be fully battery-powered. However, it is not the very first electric Popemobile, which was an Opel Ampera-E delivered to Pope Francis back in 2017. The Ampera-E is a rebranded Chevrolet Bolt that was sold by Opel while it was under General Motors ownership.
This latest Popemobile continues a rich tradition of Mercedes-Benz vehicles serving the leaders of the Catholic Church for nearly a century. The tradition began in 1930 with a Nürburg 460 Pullman Saloon provided to Pope Pius XI. Subsequent Popemobiles included a 600 Pullman Landaulet and 300 SEL for Pope John XXIII. His successor, Paul VI, also traveled in a Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman Landaulet and later a 300 SEL.
Since the 1980s, Mercedes has utilized the G-Class as the foundation for its Popemobiles, a name that gained widespread recognition during this period. The first G-Class Popemobile was utilized by Pope John Paul II, who frequently appeared in it for events held in Saint Peter’s Square.
The new electric Popemobile is expected to make its debut later this month when Pope Francis undertakes an official visit to Brazil. It will also play a significant role in the forthcoming 2025 Jubilee celebrations.
The G 580 with EQ Technology, which was introduced for the 2025 model year, is equipped with a quad-motor all-wheel-drive system capable of delivering 579 hp. Nevertheless, the version designated for the Pope has a powertrain that is modified for the lower speeds required during public engagements.
At the back of the vehicle, a rotating seat is designed for easy positioning, allowing the Pope to address his audience from different perspectives. Behind this central seat are two additional seats, positioned on either side, to accommodate extra guests. When needed, a protective canopy can be installed to shield against adverse weather conditions.
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