Global automotive supplier Magna, a key player in the industry with a workforce of over 175,000 across 343 manufacturing operations and 107 development, engineering, and sales centers in 28 countries, has further strengthened its collaboration with Mercedes-Benz. For decades, Magna has been a trusted partner of the German luxury carmaker, contributing to multiple aspects of vehicle development, including powertrain and drivetrain systems, ADAS technologies, body and chassis components, electrification, interior systems, and full vehicle assembly.
“Strong customer partnerships are the foundation of innovation and progress in the automotive sector,” said Eric Wilds, Chief Strategy & Commercial Officer at Magna. “Our ongoing collaboration with Mercedes-Benz highlights how working together drives technological breakthroughs and mutual growth.”
Since 1979, this long-standing alliance has resulted in the production of over 500,000 units of the iconic G-Class SUV at Magna’s Graz, Austria facility. Magna’s cutting-edge, carbon-neutral manufacturing plant is designed to handle conventional, hybrid, and electric powertrains on the same production line, offering unmatched flexibility in vehicle production.
In 2024, Magna initiated the production of the eDS Duo, a high-performance eDrive system, at its Lannach, Austria facility. This marks a new chapter in its partnership with Mercedes-Benz, with the all-new electric G-Class—now named the Mercedes-Benz G 580—featuring this next-generation propulsion technology for enhanced power and efficiency.
“Having supplied three generations of transfer cases for the G-Class, we are proud to now contribute to its first fully electric variant,” said Diba Ilunga, President of Magna Powertrain. “The eDS Duo reflects Magna’s adaptable approach to powertrain solutions, seamlessly evolving from internal combustion engines to electric drivetrains.”
The eDS Duo features a two-speed, dual e-motor system with a power output of up to 240 kW, delivering exceptional traction and off-road performance. One of its standout features is the innovative wheel-individual propulsion system, which enables capabilities like the ‘G-Turn’—allowing the vehicle to rotate 360 degrees in place. With advanced silicon carbide technology and optimized efficiency, the eDS Duo ensures superior performance while maximizing energy efficiency.
Magna is a leading global mobility technology company, driving innovation in the automotive industry. With a team of over 175,000 employees, the company operates 343 manufacturing facilities and 107 product development, engineering, and sales centers across 28 countries. Backed by 65+ years of expertise, Magna’s ecosystem of interconnected products, combined with its complete vehicle capabilities, enables it to shape the future of mobility and expand the possibilities of transportation.
