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\n2024 Mercedes-Benz Popemobile Marks Historic Shift to Electric Mobility
Mercedes-Benz has delivered the first all-electric Popemobile to the Vatican, marking a significant step toward sustainable transportation in papal duties. The 2024 Mercedes-Benz Popemobile, based on the new electric G-Class SUV, will enable Pope Francis to make public appearances in an emission-free vehicle, continuing a partnership with the automaker that spans nearly a century.
The First Electric Popemobile
The 2024 Popemobile represents a historic transition as the first fully electric vehicle used by a Pope during official engagements. Developed in close collaboration with the Vatican, this unique model is built on the new G580 with EQ technology platform. The vehicle's electric drivetrain has been specially adapted to meet the low-speed requirements of papal appearances, utilizing four near-wheel motors for precise maneuverability during events.
Mercedes-Benz executives, including CEO Ola Källenius, along with team members from Graz, Sindelfingen, and Rome, personally presented the custom-built vehicle to Pope Francis. The collaborative effort involved approximately a year of development and craftsmanship, culminating in a one-of-a-kind Popemobile that will be prominently used during the 2025 Jubilee—a significant event expected to draw millions of pilgrims to Rome.
Custom Design for Papal Duties
Tailored to the specific needs of the Pope, the electric Popemobile features a centrally positioned, height-adjustable single seat in the rear, allowing Pope Francis to address crowds from various angles comfortably. Additional single seats are installed behind the main seat for accompanying passengers. To enhance visibility, the roof has been modified starting from the B-pillar, creating an open-top design that offers unobstructed views during public appearances. A detachable hardtop provides protection in inclement weather.
2024 Mercedes-Benz Popemobile
Significant modifications were made to the vehicle's body to ensure seamless aesthetics and functionality. The left rear door was removed and reconstructed from a single piece to create a harmonious side profile, while the right rear door received relocated hinges for improved access. The Popemobile is finished in a classic pearl white exterior, maintaining the traditional look associated with papal vehicles.
A Step Toward Environmental Stewardship
Embracing an electric Popemobile aligns with Pope Francis's emphasis on environmental conservation, as outlined in his encyclical "Laudato Si'." By transitioning to a zero-emission vehicle, the Vatican showcases its commitment to sustainable development and ecological responsibility. The Popemobile's electric drivetrain not only provides silent operation but also reduces the carbon footprint associated with official events, setting an example for environmental stewardship on a global stage.
Continuing a Long-Standing Tradition
Mercedes-Benz's relationship with the Vatican dates back to 1930 when a Nürburg 460 Pullman Saloon was provided to Pope Pius XI. Over the decades, various models have served as the Popemobile, including the 300d Landaulet, 600 Pullman Landaulet, and modified versions of the G-Class and M-Class SUVs. Each iteration has been customized to meet the evolving needs of the papacy while incorporating the latest automotive advancements.
The previous Popemobile, delivered in 2012 to Pope Benedict XVI, was based on the Mercedes-Benz M-Class. It featured a special-purpose body with an extended dome for improved space and larger glass panels for enhanced visibility. The throne, adorned with the embroidered papal coat of arms, was a central design feature. Unlike the new 2024 model, the 2012 Popemobile relied on a conventional combustion engine.
The transition from the 2012 M-Class Popemobile to the new 2024 electric G-Class model represents a significant technological advancement. The latest Popemobile not only incorporates cutting-edge electric vehicle technology but also reflects a broader shift in the automotive industry toward sustainability. By adopting electric mobility, the Vatican aligns itself with global efforts to reduce emissions and promote environmental care.
Anticipated Performance and Specifications
While specific performance details of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz Popemobile have not been publicly disclosed, it is based on the new G580 with EQ technology—part of Mercedes-Benz's expanding lineup of electric vehicles. The standard electric G-Class is expected to offer robust performance, with electric motors delivering substantial horsepower and torque suitable for a variety of driving conditions. The Popemobile's drivetrain has been specially adapted to operate efficiently at the low speeds required during papal events.
The vehicle boasts an energy consumption rate between 27.7 and 30.4 kWh per 100 kilometers, with zero CO₂ emissions. These specifications underscore Mercedes-Benz's commitment to producing environmentally friendly vehicles and support the Vatican's goals for a reduced carbon footprint. The adoption of the electric G-Class platform signifies Mercedes-Benz's broader strategy to achieve a net-carbon-neutral new car fleet by 2039.
A Milestone in Papal Transportation
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz Popemobile represents a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. By delivering the first all-electric Popemobile, Mercedes-Benz continues its nearly century-long relationship with the Vatican while championing the move toward sustainable mobility. This historic vehicle not only serves the practical needs of Pope Francis but also symbolizes a shared commitment to environmental responsibility—a message that resonates with millions around the world.
As the Vatican prepares for the 2025 Jubilee, the new Popemobile stands as a testament to progress and the enduring partnership between two iconic institutions. The electric Popemobile not only elevates the standard for papal vehicles but also reinforces the importance of ecological stewardship in contemporary society.
