Mercedes-Benz Electric G-Class Faces Market Struggles: A Closer Look at Its Sales Performance.
The highly anticipated all-electric Mercedes-Benz Electric G-Class, officially named the G580 with EQ Technology, was expected to revolutionize the off-road luxury SUV market. However, recent reports suggest that its performance in sales has been underwhelming, leading to concerns among industry insiders and potential buyers.
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A Promising Launch With Unexpected Hurdles
Mercedes-Benz had high hopes for the electric G-Class, aiming to attract loyal customers who cherish the heritage and prestige of the classic Geländewagen lineup. Unfortunately, initial sales figures paint a different picture. According to reports from Handelsblatt, only 1,450 units had been sold by the end of April 2025—an alarmingly low number compared to the gasoline and diesel-powered variants, which achieved approximately 9,700 sales in the same period.
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Despite the luxury automaker’s attempt to embrace electrification, some Mercedes-Benz executives have expressed disappointment regarding the model’s reception. One anonymous source reportedly stated, “The car is sitting like lead at dealers; it’s a complete flop.” Another executive added, “It’s a niche model; the sales volume is very low.” These remarks indicate a significant disconnect between the brand’s expectations and consumer demand.
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Why Are Buyers Hesitant?
Several factors may be contributing to the Mercedes-Benz Electric G-Class slow adoption:
- Higher Price Tag: The EV version carries a premium price compared to its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts. For many buyers, the added cost is a deterrent, especially when considering performance limitations.
- Reduced Utility: Unlike traditional G-Class models, the electric version lacks a towbar option and has a lower maximum payload capacity (915 lbs in Europe). This makes it less appealing for consumers who value the rugged versatility of the vehicle.
- Hefty Weight & Limited Range: At nearly 6,746 lbs in the US, the electric G-Wagon is significantly heavier than its ICE versions. Its EPA-certified range of 239 miles falls short compared to competitors and traditional gasoline-powered SUVs.
- Market Preferences: Consumers interested in purchasing a G-Class often favor high-performance models with six- or eight-cylinder engines. This preference might explain the tepid response to the EV version.
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What’s Next for Mercedes-Benz’s EV Lineup?
In light of the G580’s struggle, Mercedes-Benz appears to be reevaluating its approach to future EV models. The company initially intended to launch a smaller “Little G” SUV as an all-electric vehicle, but reports indicate that hybrid or ICE versions may now be under consideration. This shift suggests that the automaker is listening to customer feedback and adapting accordingly.
Despite the current challenges, Mercedes-Benz maintains that its G-Class lineup remains popular overall. Markus Nast, Manager of Global Communication for Mercedes-Benz, recently stated, “The G-Class achieved its best-ever sales quarter in Q4 2024 and continued its strong sales performance in the first quarter of 2025 with sales up 18% compared to last year. We can flexibly offer vehicles with both a fully electric drivetrain or an electrified high-tech combustion engine. Our customers decide what suits them best.”
