Mercedes-Benz Returns to the Canadian International AutoShow
Automaker is showcasing a new variant of its G-Class, the Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology…
Following a five-year hiatus, Mercedes-Benz has returned to the Canadian International AutoShow (CIAS), where it is showcasing its latest lineup and highlighting some timeless classics. The AutoShow runs from February 14-23 at the Metro Toronto Convention Center.
“The best way to truly understand what makes a Mercedes-Benz a Mercedes-Benz is to experience our incredible vehicles firsthand,” says Andreas Tetzloff, CEO, Mercedes-Benz Canada. “From heritage cars at the Cobble Beach Classics display to test drives and an interactive exhibit of our current product portfolio, we are excited to immerse visitors in the world of Mercedes-Benz and demonstrate the many ways that we bring luxury driving to life.”
Premiering the All-New Mercedes-Benz G 580 With EQ Technology
A new variant of the G-Class—joining the Mercedes-Benz G 550 and Mercedes-AMG G 63—the all-new Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology is the first fully electric version of the G-Wagon, featuring the same silhouette and design elements as the model series. To accommodate the electric drive, the development team has modified and reinforced the ladder frame while integrating a high-voltage lithium-ion battery with 116 kWh of usable capacity. This ensures a low center of gravity for optimal performance. Additionally, the G 580 is fitted with an independent double-wishbone front suspension and a newly developed solid rear axle.
Near the wheels, the four individually controlled electric motors generate a combined output of 579 hp. Paired with the selectable Low Range off-road gear reduction, they enable unique driving characteristics and exclusive functions—most notably the vehicle’s signature “G-Turn,” which allows the SUV to rotate a full 360 degrees while remaining in place.
According to Mercedes-Benz, the new G 580 with EQ Technology can climb a 100% grade (45 degrees) on suitable surfaces. At the AutoShow, this capability is demonstrated with an 11.5-foot-high, 100% grade (i.e., 45-degree incline) mountaintop display at the Mercedes-Benz booth.
Additional Vehicle Displays and Interactive Exhibits
In addition to the G 580 with EQ Technology, the Mercedes-Benz display includes a range of vehicles showcasing the Mercedes-AMG and Mercedes-Maybach specialty brands:
- Mercedes-AMG SL 63 4MATIC+ Roadster
- Mercedes-AMG GT 63 4MATIC+ Coupe
- Mercedes-AMG E 53 4MATIC+ Sedan
- Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 4MATIC SUV
Mercedes-Benz also continues to offer customers a diverse range of powertrains, including internal combustion engines (ICE), plug-in hybrids (PHEV) and battery electric vehicles (BEV).
- ICE: CLE 300 4MATIC Cabriolet, GLA 250 4MATIC SUV
- PHEV: GLC 350e 4MATIC SUV, GLE 450e 4MATIC SUV
- BEV: EQB 300 4MATIC SUV, EQE 500 4MATIC SUV
In addition to viewing the static display, visitors can get behind the wheel of a Mercedes-Benz EQE 500 SUV for test drives on the EV Test Track. This is also where the G-Class G-Turn demonstrations will take place.
The Driving Your Future Experience at the Canadian International AutoShow
Mercedes-Benz Canada is helping to ignite the potential of young people across the country through Driving Your Future, an ongoing partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of Canada. With nearly 100 local agencies nationwide, BBBS facilitates mentoring relationships between Canadian children aged 7 to 18 (Littles) and trained adult volunteer mentors (Bigs).
Bigs and Littles are encouraged to find free activities to enjoy together, but winter weather can make that challenging. To help address this challenge, the AutoShow and Mercedes-Benz invited matches from six Ontario-based chapters of BBBS to enjoy an exclusive, complimentary Mercedes-Benz experience at the show.
“We are proud to continue to support Big Brothers Big Sisters and enable mentoring relationships that ignite the power and potential of young people. As part of this ongoing partnership, it’s a privilege to host Bigs & Littles at the AutoShow,” says Tetzloff. “Along with many of my colleagues in the automotive industry, I started off as a kid who loved cars. It’s great to be able to give something back to the next generation of fans.”
“Mentoring is like learning to drive. At first, it can be a little intimidating. Then, once you master it, your world opens up to so many possibilities. We are proud to partner with Mercedes-Benz Canada to attract potential volunteer mentors so they can inspire children to reach their potential,” says Jill Zelmanovits, CEO, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada.
