The GLC has been the most popular SUV from Mercedes-Benz across all international markets. The German marque has now introduced a fully-electric version of the SUV at the ongoing IAA Mobility motor show in Munich, Germany. Called the GLC with EQ Technology, the new electric SUV is touted as the spiritual successor to the outgoing EQE SUV whose production is ending next year.
Mercedes-Benz GLC Electric: Design
Visually, the Merc GLC Electric is almost identical to its combustion engine-powered namesake. The only major visual difference between this and its fossil-fueled cousin, is that the latter comes with a sealed-off nose with a pixelated LED treatment up front made of 942 backlit dots and the circular Mercedes three-pointed star. The faux grille is flanked by star-shaped running lights.Â
The rear lighting echoes the front design, incorporating circular LED elements that extend across the trunk lid and are complemented by tri-star accent, very similar to the electric CLA. The electric SUV rolls on 20-inch alloy wheels as standard with an option to upgrade to 21-inch units. Based on the new all-electric MB.EA-M platform, the GLC electric retains the same silhouette as the current ICE-powered GLC.
Mercedes-Benz GLC Electric: Interiors & Features
Inside the cabin, the GLC Electric treats you with a vegan leather interior. Mercedes will also provide premium choices, including Soft Torino leather and Nappa leather, both available with the AMG Line Sport Seat package. However, the centrepiece of attention is the massive 39.1-inch MBUX Hyperscreen – the largest display from Mercedes ever – which stretches across the entire dashboard.
The infotainment system now operates on the latest MBUX version, featuring cleaner menus and an integrated AI assistant. Mercedes has also reintroduced physical buttons and knobs on the steering wheel and center console, replacing the touch-sensitive controls commonly found in electric vehicles. With the new architecture, the GLC Electric offers a 84mm longer wheelbase, offering more space for rear seat occupants.
Mercedes-Benz GLC Electric: Powertrain
The powertrain in the all-electric GLC will differ with the market on sale. In markets such as the US, the model will debut in two variants: the rear-wheel-drive GLC 300+ and the all-wheel-drive GLC 400 4Matic. The GLC 300+ is powered by a single motor delivering 369 bhp, while the dual-motor GLC 400 generates 483 bhp. Both versions offer a top speed of 210 kmph and are fed by a 94kWh NMC battery.
The 800V platform supports DC fast charging up to 330 kW that can rejuvenate the battery from 10 to 80 percent in just 24 minutes. Putting it simply, this fast charger can top up 303 km in just 10 minutes. When it comes to range, the GLC Electric 400 AWD claims to deliver 713 km of range on a single charge.
