Mercedes-Benz Launches New Generation of the Electric GLC

Mercedes is reintroducing a new electric version of the compact GLC crossover, called the GLC with EQ Technology. Unlike the old EQC model that was never available in Canada and discontinued in other countries a few years ago, the GLC EQ is designed from the ground up to be an electric vehicle (EV) rather than converting an already existing internal combustion engine (ICE) platform. 

The new GLC EQ comes with new-generation Mercedes battery technology built around an 800-volt architecture that enables 330-kW charging speeds. That’s enough to add 303 km of range in just 10 minutes in ideal conditions. 

With this new, dedicated platform, the GLC EQ can also achieve some impressive range figures with a 713-km estimate, according to European testing standards (WLTP). European EV testing is typically less stringent than the testing used in North America, so figures are typically much higher than real-world range. The previous EQC model had a WLTP rating of 415 km, for example, and 354 km of real-world range. 

Mercedes says the GLC EQ has one-pedal driving, allowing for regenerative braking to be used in 99 per cent of cases during everyday driving. The regenerative braking can recuperate up to 300 kW of energy, helping drivers maximize range.

To help with driving dynamics and comfort, the crossover will get an optional adaptive air suspension, first used on the S-Class, as well as optional rear-axle steering to increase agility and stability. 

The exterior of the GLC EQ will be highlighted by a new illuminated chrome grille with over 900 individual lights, with the Mercedes emblem appearing throughout. The Mercedes logo also appears in the headlight and taillight design, which can even animate in unison with the grille when the car is charging or unlocked.

In the cabin, the GLC EQ features a huge 39.1-inch “Hyperscreen” touchscreen display, the largest fitted to a Mercedes vehicle. This large screen is composed of three different screens: a 10.25-inch driver display, a 14-inch central display, and a 14-inch front passenger display. 

The infotainment function will be controlled by the latest version of MBUX, the brand’s high-tech operating system, which will utilize artificial intelligence (AI) tools from Google and Microsoft simultaneously, depending on which is best to fulfill the driver's desired function for the car. The system will also allow a personalized experience and is supposed to facilitate more seamless interaction between the vehicle and its passengers. Users can also use natural, conversational language to perform search queries or control certain functions of the vehicle with the voice-activated virtual assistant. 

Another interior highlight will be the panoramic starry night sky display called Sky Control, which displays a dynamic starry night of 162 stars on the roof of the SUV. The panoramic glass roof can also transition between transparent and opaque. It’s split into nine different sections, which allows occupants to customize the light coming into the car. 

The interior of the GLC EQ will now be more spacious with an additional 76 mm (three inches) of length added to the wheelbase over the old model. 

This will also be the first Mercedes to offer a new vegan package that doesn’t use any animal materials, and is independently certified by the Vegan Society, a U.K.-based vegan charity. 

Upon launch, the top-of-the-range GLC 400 4Matic with EQ technology will be available first, producing 483 hp and the ability to tow an impressive 2,400 kg (5,291 lbs). Pricing and release date are expected to be announced later.