Pope Francis has taken a groundbreaking step by becoming the first pontiff to adopt an electric Popemobile. Developed by Mercedes-Benz, the vehicle marks a significant milestone in the Vatican’s journey towards sustainability.
Mercedes-Benz has worked with the Vatican for nearly a century. They have now delivered their most innovative vehicle yet—an all-electric Popemobile based on the G-Class SUV. This zero-emission marvel has been tailored to meet the unique requirements of the Holy Father. It will play a central role during the 2025 Papal Jubilee.
A LEGACY OF INNOVATION WITH MERCEDES-BENZ
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing relationship with the Vatican, supplying custom vehicles for 94 years. For 45 of those years, the German automaker has provided Popemobiles based on the iconic G-Class (formerly G-Wagen).
Yet, the newest addition is unlike any before it. This Popemobile, unveiled in a special ceremony at the Vatican, is fully electric—aligning with Pope Francis’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
KEY FEATURES OF THE ELECTRIC POPEMOBILE
Zero Emissions, Maximum Impact
The Popemobile has the G580’s four electric motors. It is designed for slow-speed mobility. This allows audiences to see Pope Francis clearly during public appearances. The electric powertrain ensures local travel is completely free of exhaust emissions.
Custom Design for the Holy Father
Developed over a year with input from the Vatican, the new Popemobile incorporates thoughtful customizations:
- Swiveling Central Seat: Positioned behind the B-pillar, the central seat allows Pope Francis to address audiences directly.
- Removable Glass Hardtop: The open-air design behind the B-pillar can be enclosed with a glass hardtop during inclement weather.
- Rear Accessibility: Carpeted steps and a single rear door provide easy access for the pontiff.
Classic Aesthetic Meets Modern Technology
True to tradition, the Popemobile retains its signature pearl white finish, blending classic elegance with cutting-edge electric innovation.
SYMBOLIZING SUSTAINABILITY
A Vision for a Greener Future
Pope Francis’s adoption of the electric Popemobile underscores his commitment to environmental responsibility. Mercedes-Benz chairman Ola Källenius emphasized this during the vehicle’s handover, saying:
“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 we are sending a clear call for electromobility and decarbonisation.”
The electric Popemobile sets an example for eco-conscious innovation, encouraging global communities to embrace sustainable mobility.
UNVEILING THE POPEMOBILE FOR THE PAPAL JUBILEE
The new Popemobile will debut at the 2025 Papal Jubilee, commencing on December 24, 2024. Millions of pilgrims will gather in Rome for this highly anticipated event. They will witness Pope Francis leading celebrations in his state-of-the-art electric vehicle.
The introduction of an electric Popemobile signifies a broader shift towards sustainability within the Catholic Church. It also reflects Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to advancing electromobility and fostering a greener future.
Pope Francis’s move aligns with his encyclical Laudato Si’, which advocates for urgent action to protect the environment. The electric Popemobile is not just a vehicle—it’s a symbol of change, innovation, and hope for a sustainable world.
