Pope goes electric: the first electric ‘Popemobile’ from Mercedes-Benz

Jubilee Year 2025

This means that during the so-called Jubilee Year 2025 – an event that takes place only once every 25 years and attracts millions of pilgrims to Rome – the Pope will be transported locally emission-free in a new Mercedes-Benz.

The electric powertrain, which was adapted to the particularly low speeds prevailing in public appearances, contributes to the realization of the encyclical “Laudato Si. In this important papal letter, Pope Francis describes the need for sustainable development.

Clear statement

At the handover, Ola Källenius thanked Pope Francis and all those involved and emphasized Mercedes-Benz’s sustainable business strategy. Källenius said, “With the new Popemobile, Pope Francis is the first pope to be driven in an all-electric Mercedes-Benz when making public appearances. This is a special honor for our company and I would like to thank His Holiness for the vote of confidence. This Popemobile is a clear statement for electromobility and decarbonization. Mercedes-Benz stands not only for the special and the individual, but also for consistently creating the conditions for a net CO2-neutral new model range in 2039.”

Private audience with the pope

The handover of the new Popemobile was followed by a private audience with the Pope. A team of specialists from Graz (Austria), Sindelfingen (Germany) and Rome (Italy) worked together for about a year on the project, which was led by the team in Rome, while the electric powertrain was modified by the team in Graz. The experts from Sindelfingen produced the body, interior and custom equipment in the traditional way.

Adjustments

The rear seat has been replaced by a centrally located and height-adjustable single seat. This swiveling main seat allows for flexible movement and addressing the audience from different angles. Behind this seat, two single seats are integrated on the left and right for additional passengers.

The roof is removed at the level of the B-pillar; the B-pillar itself blends harmoniously into the sidewall to create an unmistakable side profile. In case of rain or bad weather, a separate hardtop provides protection for the occupants. The left rear door was removed and rebuilt in one piece by the specialists – in traditional body construction style – and welded seamlessly into the body. On the right side, the hinges of the rear door were moved to the other side.

Like previous Popemobiles, the car is painted pearl white in the classic paint.