Pope Francis received a new open-top popemobile at the Vatican on December 4, 2024, in the presence of Mercedes-Benz Group CEO Ola Kallenius. The vehicle, an all-electric Mercedes-Benz, is designed for the Pope to use when greeting pilgrims in St. Peter's Square.
The popemobile is a modified version of the German company's G-Class mid-size luxury SUV, featuring an elevated seat for Francis to ensure better visibility for the crowds. Painted in white, the traditional papal color, the vehicle also includes heating features for the papal seat and a grab bar for the Pope's balance when standing.
Sten Ola Kallenius, the board chair and CEO of the Mercedes-Benz Group, described the vehicle as a masterpiece, noting the hundreds of hours of craftsmanship involved in its creation. The Vatican has not yet specified when the new popemobile will be put into service, nor has it disclosed any details about its security features. Mercedes officials also declined to reveal the cost of the vehicle.
Pope Francis, who has been the Pope since March 2013, has generally avoided bulletproof vehicles, preferring to stay close to the people. He has also emphasized environmental concerns throughout his papacy. While Mercedes officials claim this is the first all-electric popemobile, Francis has used electric cars during some of his foreign trips.
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