Alongside the latest additions to its electric EQ line-up, Mercedes-Benz has also unveiled the Concept EQG which gives a glimpse of what the electric Mercedes-Benz G-Class could look like.

The idea of an all-electric G-Class though apparently takes root all the way back in 2018 during the current W463 generation’s world premiere in Detroit. During the launch, Arnold Schwarzenegger who was invited on stage during the launch teased a promise from then Daimler AG Chairman, Dieter Zetsche that the G-Class would be added to its upcoming all-electric line-up.

Visually, the Concept EQG shows off the familiar design elements of the iconic Gelandewagen but with selected elements to make it similar to the rest of the EQ family. But don’t get too excited about the all-electric G-Class just yet. It is still a concept for now with the electric SUV estimated to be launched in 2024.

Also read: Big Daddy's Mercedes-Benz G-Class to go electric, EQG launching in 2024

The concept features a two-tone paint job with gloss black on top and gloss aluminium beam on the bottom. Though there would be no combustion engine to cool, at the front, the Concept EQG retains a large grille painted in black surrounded by illuminated round squares (or as Mercedes-Benz calls them, “squircles”) and an illuminated star in the middle.

Another element retained in the design is the rear spare wheel cover except that it doesn’t contain a spare wheel. Instead, it is a lockable box that is used to store the charging cable. The cover itself is based on the design of a wallbox charger, which makes it a unique blend of old-school and new technology.

Also read: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia explains why we can’t have the EQC yet

Though it might be powered by a somewhat cleaner power source, Mercedes-Benz claims that the electric SUV is as capable going off-road much like its internal combustion engine (ICE)-powered brethren. Powered by four electric motors located close to the wheels, it is four-wheel-drive but mechanically, it is pretty much old-school (much like the cheesy but entertaining short video above).

It is built on a ladder frame chassis with independent suspension on the front axle and a rigid axle at the rear. The off-road reduction itself can be activated via a shiftable 2-speed gearbox to allow drivers to adjust the off-roading capabilities to their liking.

To prove its off-road worthiness, the all-electric G-Class will face the legendary test track on the 1,445 m high Schöckl mountain in Graz, Austria. The 5.6 km route which contains numerous gradients of up to 60 degrees is regarded as one of the world’s greatest challenges for man and technology.

Still, one might not want to underestimate the off-roading capabilities of the electric G-Class. Aside from utilising a tough ladder frame chassis, the electric Gelandewagen will have its batteries integrated into the frame to ensure a low centre of gravity. Meanwhile, the electric motors will provide maximum torque which is definitely needed to plough through tough terrains.

Also read: 400,000 Mercedes-Benz G-Class produced, electric G Wagon coming next

That being said, the electric G-Class would be mostly used in non-treacherous terrain by most owners. It’s likely to be on the boulevards of Roppongi Hills rather than the hilly terrains of Borneo but at least kudos to the Mercedes-Benz team for making the concept pretty true to its roots.

Also read: Here’s how the Mercedes-Benz G-Class went from army general to a plaything for the rich