Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing relationship with the Vatican, supplying vehicles for nearly a century. For the past 45 years, the G-Class-based “Popemobiles” have been an iconic part of papal appearances. Now, for the first time, this tradition has gone electric.
A Sustainable Ride for the 2025 Jubilee
The new electric Popemobile will transport Pope Francis emission-free during the 2025 Jubilee, a monumental event held every 25 years that attracts millions of pilgrims to Rome. Mercedes-Benz worked closely with the Vatican to develop a vehicle that meets the Pope’s unique requirements. Designed for low-speed public appearances, the electric drivetrain reflects Pope Francis’s commitment to sustainability, as outlined in his encyclical “Laudato Si.”
Collaborative Effort Across Borders
The project brought together teams from Graz, Sindelfingen, and Rome, who spent a year crafting this bespoke vehicle. Specialists in Graz adapted the electric drivetrain, while experts in Sindelfingen focused on the bodywork and custom interiors. Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius, along with other top executives, joined team members at St. Peter’s Basilica to present the vehicle to Pope Francis in a private ceremony. The Pope also met with the designers and engineers who brought the project to life, acknowledging their craftsmanship and innovation.
Unique Design Tailored for Papal Duties
The new Popemobile features several customizations. The rear bench seat was replaced with a height-adjustable, centrally located seat that swivels, allowing Pope Francis to address audiences from different angles. Two additional single seats are available for passengers. The roof was removed to create an open design, with a detachable hardtop for protection during bad weather. Modifications include a seamlessly integrated left rear door and a right rear door with reverse hinges for easier access. The vehicle maintains the traditional pearl-white exterior.
Carrying Forward a Legacy
Mercedes-Benz has a storied history of providing vehicles for the Vatican. This legacy began in 1930 with a Nürburg 460 Pullman for Pope Pius XI. Over the decades, the company has supplied various models, including the iconic 300 Landaulet and the M-Class. The first official “Popemobile” emerged in the 1980s, a modified G-Class model used by Pope John Paul II. Several Popemobiles now reside in the Vatican and the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, showcasing their historical significance.
With this all-electric G-Class Popemobile, Mercedes-Benz continues to blend innovation with tradition, aligning modern technology with the Vatican’s vision for a more sustainable future.
