In an innovative move, the Catholic Church and the automotive industry have collided to give Pope Francis the first-ever fully electric popemobile.
Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius presented the vehicle on Wednesday at the Vatican. While the unique car meets the standards of the pope’s needs, the vehicle will primarily be used during general audiences and papal ceremonies in St. Peter’s Square.
“With the new popemobile, Pope Francis is the first pope to be traveling in a fully electric Mercedes-Benz when making public appearances,” Källenius said. “This is a special honor for our company, and I would like to thank His Holiness for his trust.”
Additionally, the open-top design ensures visibility for the pope and includes four individual motors to slow the speed of the vehicle. At the back of the car, the bench swing was modified into an elevated single seat, to give the pope a full view of his followers. Also, two more seats were added to the vehicle behind the pope’s seat giving space for additional passengers.
Nonetheless, the collaboration between the Vatican and Mercedes-Benz isn’t something that is new. According to reports, in 1930, the German automaker delivered its first “official” popemobile Pope Pius XI. The vehicle was a Nurburg 460 Pullman that6 featured luxurious silk carpeting and interior doves. However, throughout the years, the popemobile has evolved and is now incorporating advanced technology and impressive features.
Other notable popemobiles are Pope John XXIII’s 600 Pullman Landaulet and 300 SEL, Pope John Paul II’s modified G-Class, and the previous M-Class popemobile – shared by Popes John Paul II and Benedict XVI.
