Pope Francis has a new ride: a one-of-a-kind, all-electric Mercedes-Benz G-Class that was custom-designed and manufactured for him. Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Kallenius and a team of dedicated employees from the company’s facilities in Graz, Sindelfingen, and Rome presented the pontiff with this custom-made “Popemobile”.
This electric vehicle represents a considerable shift from the usual Popemobile. The vehicle’s quad-motor electric drivetrain has been modified for the low speeds typical of papal processions, allowing emissions-free driving within Vatican City and during public appearances.
The heavily upgraded G-Class is based on the new G 580 EQ. The inside has been extensively modified. The back bench seat has been replaced by a centrally positioned, height-adjustable single seat that swivels, allowing the Pope to address audiences from multiple viewpoints. Two more single seats are available behind the Pope’s seat for accompanying passengers.
The exterior has also been altered. The roof has been lifted from the B-pillar back, leaving an open-air area for the Pope to greet the populace. A removable hardtop protects against the elements when necessary. The left rear door was removed, and the right rear door’s hinges were moved to the other side. The vehicle is finished in typical pearl white paint, which has long been associated with Popemobiles.
The handover ceremony took place outside St. Peter’s Basilica, where Pope Francis met with the Mercedes-Benz team who created his new vehicle.
This electric Popemobile continues Mercedes-Benz’s long heritage of providing vehicles to the Vatican. The association began in 1930, when Pope Pius XI got a Nürburg 460 Pullman Sedan. Since then, different Mercedes-Benz models, including the G-Class for the past 45 years, have served as the Popemobile.
The new electric Popemobile will make its official debut during the 2025 Jubilee, a major event expected to draw millions of pilgrims to Rome.
