Arcade Cars (Arcade), a British-based global automotive design and technology company dedicated to reviving and redefining classic automobiles, has publicly debuted its first model, the Sojourn, at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.
Taking place between 15th and 18th August, the Concours is one of the world’s premier automotive celebrations and a fitting location for Arcade’s new bespoke vehicle. It reinterprets the legendary Mercedes-Benz G-Class for the modern era with a fusion of cutting-edge technology and luxury features.
Setting new standards for remastering the legacy G Class, the Sojourn is a completely restored, updated, bespoke luxury 4×4 based on the iconic GE 230 model. Mercedes-Benz produced this model from 1979 to 2001 and is famed for its ability to master any conditions. With its defiantly straight lines and unmistakable silhouette, the GE 230 retains a rugged, enduring appeal that burns even brighter in an era of ever-softer and curvaceous auto design.
Arcade selects its donor vehicles exclusively – and in the most authentic way possible – from a pool of former Swiss Army stock before subjecting each model to restoration and redefinition. The two-door soft-top Sojourn is entirely customisable to each owner’s specifications, offered in six- or eight-seat configurations with a choice of petrol or electric powertrains.
At Pebble Beach, it is appearing on the stand of recently announced development partner, electrification experts Everrati, who have developed an advanced electric powertrain for the bespoke 4×4, enabling it to bridge the gap between tradition and innovation, delivering a driving experience that is both timeless and effortlessly contemporary.
Co-developed with Everrati, the electric Sojourn features a state-of-the-art, fully integrated, OEM-grade proprietary Everrati electric drivetrain with a 55kWh battery. This battery is combined with an electric motor offering 153PS and 300Nm of torque, giving zero-emission versions a 150-mile range. This keeps the spirit of the original but brings it fully up to date, embodying sustainable luxury.
For those who choose ICE, petrol options also come in the form of two powerplants derived from the original GE230 engine: a 128PS/190Nm 2.3-litre four-cylinder unit or an upgraded 2.8-litre engine, with 151PS and 237Nm of torque, giving even more capable performance on and off-road. For customers in the US and the Middle East, Arcade can install even more powerful engines using a range of new units that are compatible with the vehicle.
Every finished Sojourn is as individual and charismatic as its owner wishes, thanks to an all-encompassing range of bespoke interior trim, luxury features, striking exterior paint finishes, and character-enhancing accessories.
From bold and vibrant hues to subtle and sophisticated shades, Arcade’s colour palette is as diverse as its clients’ imaginations and encompasses beguiling finishes. While Racing Green, Pacific Blue, Shadow Grey, and Matte Black may be the brand’s signature colours, they are the tip of the iceberg—customers can have any desired colour.
The rich abundance of options ranges from the softest, highest-quality leather customarily reserved for OEM luxury and supercars to an even more durable finish. Arcade’s highly skilled artisans hand-cut and stitch leather and fabrics to perfectly hug surfaces, collaborating with world-leading manufacturers to 3D stitch unique patterns and deploy modern fabric weaving technology and techniques.
Owners can choose to remain with the original G-Class 8-seat ‘long-bench’ traditional configuration, ideal for large family and adventure group outings, or opt for a more contemporary theme with two bucket and two jump seats in the rear to effortlessly accommodate up to six occupants.
Arcade also updates the user experience of the GE 230 with an array of connected infotainment technology that could barely have been dreamed of when the first model rolled off the production line in 1979. These include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto-enabled touch control-based systems and retro-inspired Bluetooth systems empathetically camouflaged within the vehicle’s dashboard. In addition, every Sojourn comes with a choice of premium speakers and a concealed subwoofer.
An array of accessories significantly extends the Sojourn’s operating capabilities over the GE230. Xenon or even more powerful LED headlamps can be supplemented with roof—or grille-mounted rally-style spotlights to pierce the darkest night and illuminate forest trails and mountain tracks.
A front bush guard and light-protecting grilles enable the Sojourn to penetrate the densest jungle.
A comprehensive array of wheels and tyres, from sophisticated alloys to more rugged steel off-road items, is yet another example of how Arcade has thoroughly restored and reimagined the GE 230 to ensure that in Sojourn form, it is now eminently suited to contemporary lifestyles and whatever adventures and missions its owners choose to undertake.
Headquartered in London, with operations in the vehicle’s birthplace, Austria, and facilities in Mercedes-Benz’s home city, Stuttgart, Germany, Arcade has forged expert relationships with industry leaders to offer customers impeccable quality at every touchpoint.
Sojourn order books are open now. During Monterey Car Week, strictly limited pre-order slots are available, and the first customer deliveries are expected in late 2024.
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