Image via Mercedes-Benz
The Popemobile, like the Batmobile, has taken on many forms throughout the decades. The latest one is a modified all-electric Mercedes G-Wagon Pope Leo XIV will use for public appearances. It’s a $500,000 SUV that’s all white outside and in.
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This first EV Popemobile was developed in collaboration with Pope Francis and was revealed in December 2024. However, he wasn’t able to use it much, meaning his successor will be the one to roll around in it for public appearances.
Mercedes adapted the electric drivetrain, which puts a motor at each of the four wheels, so it works well at low speeds. After all, the Popemobile is used to drive through large crowds slowly as the Pope waves to the faithful.
The G580 was built using EQ tech, allowing the automaker to showcase to a large global audience its electric vehicle features.
That’s why the rear portion of the Popemobile is a convertible with one prominent seat set higher than the rest. That seat is able to swivel for addressing crowds in any position. Theres’ a removable canopy which can be installed in case of inclement weather.
Even more interesting are the redesigned rear doors. Because this G-Wagon is a completely custom job, hence its half a million dollar price tag, everything was coachbuilt. On the driver’s side, the rear door was removed and rebuilt, then welded into the body.
Meanwhile, the passenger-side rear door has its hinges relocated back and the handle moved forward. That means it opens like an old suicide door we see on some classic cars.
As Mercedes-Benz proudly notes, it’s been crafting Popemobiles or vehicles for the head of the Roman Catholic Church for almost a century. This G-Wagon represents a continuation of that proud tradition.
Images via Mercedes-Benz
