Mercedes delivers first electric Popemobile as Pope Francis ditches petrol and diesel – ‘Special honour’
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled its first-ever all-electric Popemobile, marking a historic shift for Pope Francis as he embarks on a significant religious event.
The custom-built vehicle will enable Pope Francis to travel emission-free during the 2025 Jubilee, which occurs every 25 years and draws millions of pilgrims to Rome.
The new electric Popemobile, based on Mercedes-Benz’s G-Class, was developed in close collaboration with the Vatican to meet specific requirements for papal use.
The vehicle’s development aligns with Pope Francis’s emphasis on sustainable development, which was highlighted in the letter sent to all bishops in his “Laudato Si”.
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Mercedes-Benz’s relationship with the Vatican dates back 94 years, beginning with the delivery of a Nürburg 460 Pullman Saloon to Pope Pius XI in 1930.
The 1960s saw Pope John XXIII receive a 300 Landaulet with automatic transmission, while his successor Paul VI used both a 600 Pullman Landaulet and a 300 SEL.
The term “Popemobile” was officially introduced in the 1980s with John Paul II’s modified G-model 460 series, while the G500 from the 463 series served John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francis.
Several retired Popemobiles are now displayed at the Vatican and the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.
The development of the new electric Popemobile was a collaborative effort spanning three countries over approximately one year.
A specialist team from Rome managed the project, while engineers in Graz, Austria, adapted the electric drivetrain, while experts from Sindelfingen, Germany, focused on crafting the bodywork, interior fittings, and customised equipment using traditional methods.
The handover ceremony took place outside St Peter’s Basilica, where Ola Källenius, accompanied by Britta Seeger and Marc Langenbrinck, presented the vehicle.
The event was particularly special as the Pope met not only executives but also the employees who developed and built his new vehicle.
Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, said: “With the new Popemobile, Pope Francis is the first pope to be travelling in a fully electric Mercedes-Benz when making public appearances.
“This is a special honour for our company, and I would like to thank His Holiness for his trust. With this Popemobile, we are also sending out a clear call for electromobility and decarbonisation.
“Mercedes-Benz not only stands for the special and individual – but also for consistently creating the conditions for a net-carbon-neutral new car fleet in 2039.”
The new G580 features an electric drivetrain specifically adapted for slow-speed public appearances, utilising four near-wheel motors.
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The vehicle’s design includes a unique seating arrangement, with a centrally positioned, height-adjustable single seat replacing the rear bench.
The exterior maintains the classic pearl white finish of previous Popemobiles, with modifications including a removed roof at the B-pillar and a custom-built left rear door. A separate hardtop provides protection during inclement weather.
Britta Seeger, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, added: “We build the perfect Mercedes for every customer – including, for almost 100 years, the Vatican. We are overjoyed to be able to fulfil the Holy Father’s wish for an electric Popemobile and are particularly proud to be able to build the vehicle according to his requirements.
“This cooperation at eye level honours us deeply and is a valuable symbol of sustainable change together.”