The latest version of the iconic ‘Popemobile’, the Mercedes G-Class EV will be used for local visits (Image: Mercedes-Benz Group AG)
has created a new one-of-a-kind designed to be used by on official visits from 2025.
First used in 1965, the famous ” is typically used for the Pope to easily greet crowds whilst on the move during public appearances throughout the world.
However Ola Källenius, chairman of the board of management of , noted that the new model will be the first fully-electric model used by the leader.
He said: “With the new Popemobile, Pope Francis is the first pope to be travelling in a 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.”
:
Inside the car, Pope Francis will sit on a swivelling armchair, with guards either side (Image: Mercedes-Benz Group AG)
Based on the famous G-Class SUV, which has been produced since 1979, the new electric ‘Popemobile’ will feature a unique drivetrain limited to low speeds, making it ideal for local visits around the Vatican and Rome.
Like all ‘Popemobiles’, the rear end is completely different from the production version of the G-Class, featuring a pickup truck-style open space, featuring two small folding seats for guards and a removable roof and glass cover if the vehicle is being used in adverse weather.
The Pope sits in a large armchair-like seat which can be raised or turned to face crowds in any direction. The leader is also able to access the vehicles via a set of steps at the rear or through a specially handbuilt door on the passenger side.
Don’t miss… [REPORT]
The Pope’s personal vehicles are not as luxurious, including a 1980s Renault 4GTL (Image: Getty)
Whilst the Pope has used a wide range of ‘Popemobiles’ based on the Mercedes-Benz G-Class for the past 45 years, there are plenty of interesting cars that have been converted over the years into the iconic vehicle.
Over the years, Popes have been seen a Lincoln Continental for a visit to New York City in 1965, a Jeep Wrangler during an appearance in Ecaudor and a fleet of Leyland Constructor trucks during his time in the UK in 1982.
Nevertheless, the Pope Francis’ personal cars are not so lavish as official vehicles, with the figure often spotted in a second-generation Ford Focus, made from 2005 to 2008, and a 1984 Renault 4GTL.