For 45 years, the G-Class has been the basis of the popemobile, but only this time is it all-electric. Based on the G 580 with EQ Technology, it keeps the impressive 587 horsepower and 1,164 Nm output. However, because it’ll be used mostly for parades and public appearances, it has undergone significant modifications to transform it into a popemobile.

The bench seat in the rear gets replaced with a centrally positioned and height-adjustable single seat which swivels. This makes it possible for the pope to move around flexibly and address an audience from different angles. Behind this single seat, there are two single seats that have been integrated on the left and right for additional passengers.

The roof was removed at the B-pillar with custom bodywork installed to create a harmonious transition into the side wall. To deal with rain or bad weather conditions, a separate hardtop can be installed to offer protection for the occupants.

The left rear door was removed and rebuilt by the specialists—in traditional coachbuilding style—from a single piece and seamlessly welded into the bodyshell. On the right-hand side, the hinges of the rear door were relocated to the opposite side. Like previous Popemobiles, the vehicle is painted in classic pearl white.

Mercedes-Benz has been manufacturing vehicles for the head of the Catholic Church and his travels and public appearances for almost 100 years. The first vehicle of this type was a Nürburg 460 Pullman Sedan for Pope Pius XI from 1930. At the time, Mercedes-Benz was awarded the delivery contract due to a harmonious overall package—and because the team at the time transferred an important characteristic of previous carriages to the vehicle—the ability to accommodate two dignitaries and other staff using folding seats.

In the 1960s, John XXIII received a 300 Landaulet with an automatic transmission and extended wheelbase. His successor Paul VI initially used a 600 Pullman Landaulet and later a 300 SEL – also a Landaulet. In the 1980s, John Paul II used the first vehicle officially called “Popemobile” for events in St. Peter’s Square, a modified 460 series G-Class model. From 2002, he used a 463 series G 500, which was also used by his successors Benedict XVI and Francis. Specially-designed vehicles based on the Mercedes-Benz M-Class and the GLE were also used at times. After retirement from service, some of the Popemobiles were placed for viewing in the Vatican and the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.