2025 Mercedes-Benz G580 Popemobile W463

A New Chapter in the Popemobile Legacy: Fully Electric Design

Mercedes-Benz, with a 94-year tradition of serving the Vatican, has introduced its first all-electric Popemobile based on the 2025 Mercedes-Benz G580 W463. The handcrafted vehicle, tailored for Pope Francis, was presented by Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius and his team in the Vatican. This emission-free model is timed to coincide with the 2025 Jubilee, an event expected to draw millions of pilgrims to Rome. Its electric drivetrain is adapted for the slow speeds required during public appearances, aligning with Pope Francis' vision of sustainable development outlined in the encyclical Laudato Si.

• Mercedes-Benz introduced the first all-electric Popemobile, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz G580 W463, tailored for Pope Francis' use.
• The Popemobile aligns with Pope Francis’ sustainability goals as outlined in the encyclical Laudato Si, featuring a locally emission-free electric drivetrain.
• This custom-built vehicle is designed for the 2025 Jubilee, a significant Vatican event expected to attract millions of pilgrims.
• The electric drivetrain has been optimized for low-speed travel, essential for public appearances during Papal events.
• A height-adjustable, swiveling single seat in the rear enhances flexibility and visibility for the Pope during engagements.
• Additional features include two passenger seats, a detachable hardtop for weather protection, and a seamless, coachbuilt rear door for structural durability.
• The Popemobile is painted in classic pearl white, maintaining the traditional aesthetic of its predecessors.
• Development involved collaboration across Graz, Sindelfingen, and Rome, with teams specializing in electric adaptation, craftsmanship, and project management.
• Mercedes-Benz has been supplying vehicles to the Vatican for 94 years, with Popemobile designs evolving since the 1930s to meet specific Papal requirements.
• Retired Popemobiles, including past G-Class and M-Class models, are displayed at the Vatican and Mercedes-Benz Museum, highlighting their historical importance.

Collaborative Effort: Design and Manufacturing Across Locations

The G580 Popemobile was developed through a year-long collaboration involving teams from Graz, Sindelfingen, and Rome. The Graz team adapted the electric drivetrain, while the Sindelfingen specialists crafted the bodywork and interior with traditional methods. The Rome team managed the overall project. At the handover event near St. Peter's Basilica, Pope Francis met with team members from all three locations, who presented the unique vehicle and participated in a private audience.

Unique Features of the G580 Popemobile

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G580 Popemobile integrates EQ technology to leverage the benefits of four near-wheel motors. The drivetrain is optimized for low-speed travel, making it ideal for public engagements.

Key customizations include:

• A centrally positioned, height-adjustable single seat with swiveling functionality for enhanced mobility and visibility during appearances.
• Two additional single seats positioned behind the main seat for accompanying passengers.
• A modified B-pillar and roof design with a detachable hardtop for weather protection.
• A seamlessly welded, coachbuilt left rear door for improved structural integrity.
• Classic pearl white exterior paint to maintain continuity with previous Popemobiles.

Historical Context: Mercedes-Benz and the Vatican

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing relationship with the Vatican, dating back to 1930 with the Nürburg 460 Pullman Saloon for Pope Pius XI. Over the decades, the Popemobiles have evolved from luxurious sedans to custom-built G-Class models designed for security and visibility. Notable designs include the 300 Landaulet in the 1960s, the 460 series G-Class in the 1980s, and later adaptations of the GLE and M-Class. Many retired Popemobiles are displayed at the Vatican and the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, celebrating their historical significance.

The 2025 G580 Popemobile marks a pivotal step in this tradition, combining advanced electric technology with custom craftsmanship to meet the unique requirements of the Papal office.

Source

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