Mercedes-Benz has provided the official vehicles for the Pope for 97 years, including the well-known Papamobile, based on the G-Class. Now, for the first time, the official vehicle of the Pope is a fully electric Mercedes-Benz, which was personally delivered by Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz, to Pope Francis at the Vatican.
Thus, according to the German brand, “the Pope will travel with zero local emissions in a new Papamobile until the Jubilee of 2025, an event that occurs every 25 years and for which millions of pilgrims are expected in Rome”.
This unique handcrafted model is based on the new 100% electric G-Class and is equipped with four electric motors that in the standard version deliver a combined power of 587 hp and a maximum torque of 1165 Nm.
Mercedes has revealed that the new Papamobile has been adapted to fully leverage the advantages of the four motors for the special purpose of slow travel during public appearances.
In this regard, at the rear, the seat has been replaced with a centrally positioned, height-adjustable single seat. This main rotating seat allows for flexible movement and the ability to address the audience from different angles. Behind the single seat, two individual seats have been integrated on the left and right for additional passengers.
The roof has been removed at the B pillar, and the B pillar itself has been harmoniously integrated into the side wall to create a distinctive side profile. In case of rain or bad weather, a separate rigid roof provides protection for the occupants. The left rear door has been removed and reconstructed by specialists – in the traditional body construction style – from a single piece and welded seamlessly to the body. On the right side, the hinges of the rear door have been relocated to the opposite side.
