Mercedes-Benz is testing the electric G-Class in the Arctic ahead of the off-roader's debut next year.
The new model, previewed as the Concept EQG in 2021, is expected to deliver 430 kW of combined power from four motors. The low RPM torque in motors makes battery electric vehicles especially capable off-road.
Mercedes said the electric G-Class will have a new battery that is 20 to 40 percent more energy dense, helping reduce vehicle weight or extend driving range.
"Delivering such a high energy density is a true game-changer and allows us to think in completely new directions when developing future electric cars," Mercedes Chief Technology Officer Markus Schaefer said last year.
Originally built for military and safari applications, the G-Class has captured the Instagram accounts of rap and reality TV stars. Sales in the U.S. — the G-Class' largest market — peaked in 2021 at 8,523 vehicles.