Electric Mercedes G580: Overpriced, Overrated, or Off-Road King?

Off-Road Capability Tested

• ⚡ The electric Mercedes G580 was tested on a TFL slip test to evaluate its all-wheel-drive system against various challenging scenarios.
• 💡 In a diagonal slip test, the quad electric motors effectively managed traction, pulling the vehicle unstuck with minimal drama.
• ⚠️ A three-wheel slip test in normal high range resulted in significant wheel spin and a sudden catapulting motion, highlighting the need for a lower gear.
• ⛰️ Engaging the low range in 'rock crawl' mode significantly improved control during the three-wheel slip test, providing a much smoother and more manageable experience.
• 🔧 Despite impressive EV four-wheel-drive performance, the lack of mechanical locking differentials means it's not as seamless as a traditional locked G-Wagen.

Underbody and Suspension

• 🔋 The G580 features a large battery pack with substantial underbody plating for protection, as expected for an electric off-roader.
• 🔩 The vehicle utilizes independent front and rear suspension, with the suspension components notably marked with 'AMG'.
• ⚠️ The stock Falcon tires are identified as a weak point for off-road use, appearing more like summer or autocross tires with minimal tread.
• 🔗 A substantial recovery point is present on the rear of the vehicle.

EV Off-Roading Challenges and Potential

• 🔌 Traditional EV traction control and 'e-lockers' often struggle in off-road scenarios, but Mercedes appears to have developed a strong system for the G580.
• 🚀 The independent suspension and quad-motor setup, especially with the low range, offer significant off-road potential, outperforming many other EVs tested.
• ⚙️ The real low-range gear, accessible in 'rock mode', is a key advantage for controlled crawling over rugged terrain.
• 💡 The vehicle's potential is highlighted, with a strong suggestion to equip it with more aggressive all-terrain tires to fully utilize its capabilities.

Unique Features and Conclusion

• ↩️ A 'turn assist' button is available, which, combined with the quad motors, allows for dragging an inside wheel and powering the outside wheel for tighter turns.
• 🔄 The G580 also features a 'GT turn' or tank turn capability, allowing it to pivot on its axis, though its practical usefulness is questioned.
• 🔊 The vehicle includes a 'G-Roar' feature that plays engine noise inside the cabin.
• ✅ Overall, the electric G580 is deemed to have the capability to claim the G-Wagen name for its 4x4 performance, with its EV four-wheel-drive system being rated as A+.