Mercedes-Benz presented Pope Francis with the electric "papamobile" G-Class

Mercedes-Benz has been supplying vehicles to the Vatican for 94 years, and for the past 45 years the Pope has been using the famous "Papamobiles" based on the Mercedes-Benz G-Class. However, this occasion is special - Pope Francis received an electric car based on the new G-Class for the first time. The car was personally handed over by Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius.

Here's What We Know

The car was developed in co-operation with the Vatican specifically for the Pope's use in accordance with the encyclical "Laudato Si". In it, Pope Francis describes the need for sustainable development. The G-Class' electric drivetrain has been adapted to the particularly low speeds required for public appearances. The model is based on the G580 SUV with four electric motors. No other details about the powertrain have been revealed by Mercedes-Benz, but it is known that the regular G580 develops up to 432 kW (587 hp) and 1,164 Nm of torque. The 116 kWh battery has enough capacity for 468 kilometres on the WLTP cycle.

The rear of the vehicle for the Pope features a centre adjustable seat that can swivel for the Pope's comfort during addresses. Two additional seats are provided on the sides for companions.

The roof has been removed at the level of the centre pillar and the centre pillar itself has harmoniously transitioned into the side wall. In case of rain or bad weather conditions, a separate hard roof provides protection for the passengers. The left rear door was welded to the bodywork. On the right side, the tailgate hinges were moved to the opposite side.

Like the previous "Papamobiles", the exterior of the car is painted in the classic pearl white colour.

Source: Mercedes-Benz