Bollywood actor Kunal Khemu has added a new vehicle to his garage, but this latest purchase stands apart from the traditional image long associated with the model. Khemu recently took delivery of the all-electric Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology, becoming one of the early celebrity owners of the battery-powered G-Class in India.
Videos circulating online show the actor receiving the luxury SUV alongside his family. While celebrity vehicle purchases frequently attract attention, this delivery arrives during a period when electric vehicles are expanding into segments that were once considered unlikely candidates for electrification.
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class has spent decades building its reputation as a rugged, full-size SUV known for powerful engines, off-road capability and a distinctive boxy design. The introduction of an electric version marks a notable shift for a model that has traditionally been linked to combustion-powered performance.
Despite the transition to battery power, Mercedes-Benz has retained much of the G-Class’s familiar appearance. The exterior remains largely recognizable, allowing the electric variant to preserve the visual identity that has made the SUV popular among enthusiasts and luxury buyers. Beneath the surface, however, the vehicle represents a significant departure from previous generations.
The G 580 with EQ Technology replaces the conventional engine setup with four electric motors and a large battery pack. The approach allows Mercedes-Benz to offer an electric alternative while maintaining the character that has defined the G-Class for years.
Khemu’s choice also reflects broader developments within India’s luxury electric vehicle market. Not long ago, premium EV offerings were largely concentrated in sedans and smaller sport utility vehicles. Automakers are now introducing electric versions of models that were originally developed around traditional powertrains.
The electric G-Class is one example of that evolution. By adapting a vehicle known for its classic SUV credentials to meet growing interest in electrification, manufacturers are expanding the range of choices available to luxury buyers.
While celebrity purchases often generate short-term attention, the significance of this delivery extends beyond social media interest. The arrival of the electric G-Class in India was already viewed as an important step for the premium EV segment. Its adoption by buyers, including prominent public figures, suggests that demand for high-end electric SUVs is beginning to translate into real-world ownership as the market continues to evolve.
Image credits: autohangar – Instagram/source
John Lloyd