6 Minutes
An electric turning point for the GLC
The Mercedes-Benz GLC has long been a top-selling model for the three-pointed star, and the arrival of a fully electric variant marks a significant step for the midsize SUV lineup. Unveiled ahead of the IAA Mobility show in Munich, the Mercedes‑Benz GLC with EQ Technology represents more than a simple powertrain swap: it previews the brand’s EV architecture, advanced electronics, and new user experiences that Mercedes says will be a "turning point in the midsize segment." Expected to reach showrooms in the first half of next year, the GLC EV launches a family of battery-electric models designed to compete in the fast-evolving EV market.
What’s new: platform, powertrain and packaging
The headline feature is an 800-volt electric drivetrain that enables faster charging and higher sustained performance. Mercedes confirmed the first variant will be badged GLC 400 4MATIC, producing 483 hp and offering a claimed maximum range of 443 miles (713 km) under the manufacturer’s testing cycle. This flagship will be followed by four additional versions that broaden power, range and equipment options for buyers seeking balance between performance and efficiency.
Dimensions and interior space
Although the new electric GLC keeps design continuity with its internal combustion siblings, the EV-specific body sits on an 84 mm longer wheelbase than the ICE model. That stretch translates into tangible improvements for passengers: +13 mm front legroom, +46 mm front headroom, +47 mm rear legroom and +17 mm rear headroom. Luggage capacity also grows—570 liters behind the rear seats and up to 1,740 liters with seats folded—plus an additional 128 liters in the front trunk (frunk) for everyday carry and charging cables.
Interior tech: the MBUX Hyperscreen and AI integration
Inside, Mercedes introduces a showpiece: the MBUX Hyperscreen. Stretching 39.1 inches (93 cm) across the dashboard, the Hyperscreen integrates the fourth-generation MBUX software running on MB.OS, which Mercedes claims can perform up to 254 trillion operations per second. The system is positioned as the first in-car infotainment solution to natively combine artificial intelligence technologies from both Microsoft and Google, delivering personalized UX, voice assistance and over-the-air updates that tailor the vehicle experience to the driver over time.
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Driver assistance and sensor suite
The GLC with EQ Technology is packed with sensing hardware—ten external cameras, five radar units and twelve ultrasonic sensors—bringing it closer to advanced driver assistance and partial automation. Rear-axle steering with up to 4.5 degrees improves low-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability. For buyers who tow, the EV is rated for up to 2.4 tonnes, providing practical capability for trailers and caravans.
Charging, connectivity and convenience
A notable industry-first feature is an integrated charging-station reservation function delivered via MB.CHARGE Public. This service aims to streamline public charging by allowing drivers to locate and reserve chargers from the car’s infotainment system, although Mercedes has not yet published the full operational details. Complementing this, the 800‑volt architecture is expected to shorten DC fast-charge times compared with typical 400‑volt systems, improving usability for longer trips.
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Braking and energy recovery: One-Box system
On the mechanical side, Mercedes has introduced the One-Box braking system to harmonize regenerative braking and conventional friction brakes. The system provides a consistent pedal feel whether energy is being recuperated or standard brakes are applied, with up to 300 kW of recuperation available and four selectable levels of energy recovery. For drivers, this translates to predictable brake behavior and higher energy return during deceleration.
Performance and driving impressions
With 483 hp in the GLC 400 4MATIC, acceleration is expected to be brisk—placing the electric GLC firmly in performance-oriented territory among midsize EV SUVs. The combination of all-wheel-drive, high-voltage architecture and sophisticated thermal management should produce stable performance across a wide range of conditions. Subsequent variants will tune power and range to meet diverse buyer needs, from efficiency-focused commuters to performance-minded drivers.
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Market positioning and price expectations
Mercedes positions the electric GLC as a premium midsize EV aiming squarely at buyers who want an upscale cabin, cutting-edge tech and the practicality of an SUV. The company has kept launch pricing under wraps; however, the existing U.S. GLC lineup ranges from the GLC 300 (255 hp, from $49,550) to the high-performance GLC 63 S E Performance (671 hp, $86,750). Expect the EQ Technology models to start above the conventional GLCs and overlap with the upper-midrange pricing of electrified premium competitors, reflecting the advanced hardware and software content.
How the electric GLC compares to rivals
Against established midsize EV SUVs, the Mercedes GLC with EQ Technology competes on range, refinement and feature content—particularly the Hyperscreen and AI-driven MBUX. Its claimed 713 km range (manufacturer figure) positions it favorably for long-distance buyers. Competitors from premium brands will offer comparable range and charging performance, but Mercedes’ differentiators are its interior tech, integrated charging reservations and a focus on ride comfort coupled with towing capability.
Specifications at a glance
- Model at launch: GLC 400 4MATIC (flagship)
- Electric architecture: 800-volt system
- Power: 483 hp (first announced variant)
- Estimated range: up to 443 miles / 713 km (manufacturer claim)
- Wheelbase: +84 mm vs. ICE GLC
- Luggage capacity: 570 L (rear seats up); 1,740 L (seats folded); 128 L frunk
- Charging: MB.CHARGE Public integration and fast-charge capable
- Energy recuperation: up to 300 kW, four regenerative levels (One-Box braking)
- Sensors: 10 cameras, 5 radars, 12 ultrasonic sensors
- Towing: up to 2.4 tonnes
Conclusion
The Mercedes‑Benz GLC with EQ Technology is more than a battery swap—it’s a showcase of the brand’s next-generation EV thinking. From an 800‑volt electrical architecture and expanded interior space to an imposing MBUX Hyperscreen and integrated charging services, the new GLC aims to redefine the midsize premium electric SUV category. Pricing and full model line-up details will arrive closer to market launch in the first half of next year, but early indications suggest Mercedes is staking a claim to leadership in technology-rich, practical EVs for families and enthusiasts alike.
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