The G-Class goes electric, and so does Pope Francis. This Wednesday, Mercedes presented its brand new “popemobile” to the pontiff, a 100% electric G-Class SUV modified to serve as a ceremonial vehicle. Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius personally handed over the SUV to Pope Francis at the Vatican.
“With the new popemobile, Pope Francis is the first pontiff to travel in a fully electric Mercedes-Benz during his public appearances. This is a great honor for our company and I would like to thank His Holiness for his trust,” said Ola. Källenius in a press release from the brand.
Reuters points out, however, that the Pope has already used electric cars during his trips abroad. The idea of an officially electric popemobile had already been launched in 2021 by the specialized manufacturer Fisker, but this project ultimately did not see the light of day.
Registered as “SCV1” (“Vatican City State 1”, specifies Vatican News), this G-Class is a unique example, painted in the classic pearl white like all popemobiles. “The bodywork, interior design and personalized equipment have been personalized by hand,” the manufacturer specifies.
The SUV has a rotating center seat in the rear, placed in front of two other seats to accommodate other passengers. A hardtop can cover the rear deck in case of rain.
The immaculate color is found in the cabin, while the Vatican shield is fixed on the vehicle’s pillars and small yellow and white flags adorn the hood.
The development of this new popemobile took a year, explained the German manufacturer, in coordination with the Vatican. Mercedes has supplied the Pope’s cars for 94 years. The G-Class has been the Pope’s official car for his popemobiles for 45 years.
Source: BFM TV
