The New G 580 with EQ technology

• The electric drivetrain of the new G 580 with EQ technology was adapted to use the advantages of the four electric motors near each wheel for the special purpose of slow journeys at public appearances.
• In the rear of the vehicle, the bench seat was replaced by a centrally positioned and height-adjustable single seat. This swiveling main seat makes it possible to move around flexibly and address an audience from different angles. Behind the single seat, two single seats have been integrated on the left and right for additional passengers.
• The roof was removed at the B-pillar, and the B-pillar itself was moved into the side wall to create an unmistakable side profile.
• In case of rain or bad weather conditions, a separate hardtop offers protection for the occupants.
• The left rear door was removed and rebuilt by the specialists – in traditional coachbuilding style – from a single piece and welded into the bodyshell.
• On the right-hand side, the hinges of the rear door were relocated to the opposite side.
• As with previous Popemobiles, the vehicle is painted in classic pearl white.

Mercedes-Benz Vatican Vehicles

Mercedes-Benz has been manufacturing vehicles for the head of the Catholic Church and his travels and public appearances for almost 100 years. The first vehicle of this type was a Nürburg 460 Pullman Sedan for Pope Pius XI from 1930. At the time, Mercedes-Benz was awarded the delivery contract due to the overall package. The team at the time transferred an important characteristic of previous carriages to the vehicle – the ability to accommodate two dignitaries and other staff using folding seats.

In the 1960s, John XXIII received a 300 Landaulet with an automatic transmission and extended wheelbase. His successor Paul VI initially used a 600 Pullman Landaulet and later a 300 SEL – also a Landaulet. In the 1980s, John Paul II used the first vehicle officially called “Popemobile” for events in St. Peter’s Square, a modified 460 series G-Class model. From 2002, he used a 463 series G 500, which was also used by his successors Benedict XVI and Francis. Specially-designed vehicles based on the Mercedes-Benz M-Class and the GLE were also used at times. After retirement from service, some of the Popemobiles were placed for viewing in the Vatican and the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.