Mercedes-Benz’s GLC: Embracing the Electric Future
Mercedes-Benz is taking a bold step toward electrification with its best-selling GLC model. The automaker is developing a fully electric version of the GLC alongside its combustion engine counterpart, aiming for a launch in 2026. Automotive engineers are allowing early test drives of the prototype to showcase this new approach. This strategy signifies Mercedes’ commitment to offering customers a choice without compromising performance or features.
A New Chapter for the GLC
Chief Engineer Drummond Jacoy admits to a somewhat unusual situation. “For the customer, there should no longer be any difference between the two worlds,” Jacoy says, referencing plans to give customers the best electric SUV and best gas SUV. In other words, the electric GLC aims to meet or exceed the capabilities of the current model. The early release of the prototype, six months before its world premiere at the IAA in Munich and a year before its market launch is unusual, but demonstrates Mercedes’ confidence in its new electric offering. This approach is partly intended to distinguish this launch from the less successful EQC.
Performance and Technology
In initial test drives, the electric GLC, heavily camouflaged both inside and out, is showing it’s a competitor to the Audi Q6 e-tron and the upcoming BMW iX3’s. The top-of-the-line electric GLC model has two electric motors delivering a combined 320 kW. The rear motor is coupled with a two-speed gearbox, similar to the electric CLA. This boosts the GLC’s performance at traffic lights and on the highway. This technology allows for a robust driving experience, with impressive acceleration and impressive range. The prototype is offering, for the first time, what is described as true one-pedal driving.
Enhanced Driving Experience
Beyond performance, the electric GLC emphasizes a superior driving experience. A wheelbase extended by approximately ten centimeters compared to its combustion engine counterpart, and the low placement of a large battery pack, results in greater stability and comfort. High-end versions of the GLC will get air suspension helping to smooth the ride even further, ensuring a comfortable ride. Furthermore, the GLC features rear-axle steering, similar to the EQS and EQE, enhancing maneuverability.
Inside the vehicle, the expansion in wheelbase provides additional space for rear passengers. Mercedes has ensured that the electric GLC offers similar boot and towing capacity to the combustion engine models with the added convenience of a ‘frunk.’
Battery and Range
The electric GLC will utilize a 95 kWh battery, targeted to offer a range of over 650 kilometers (approximately 404 miles). The MMA modular system is being used for the electric GLC. The battery uses silicon oxide in the anode graphite and NMC cell chemistry in the cathode. The base model will likely use LFP cells, as is also the case with the electric CLA.
Pricing and Drive System
Mercedes is using its own development for the drive on the rear axle, that is a PSM, or a permanently excited synchronous machine, with permanent magnets in the rotor. In the 4MATIC models with all-wheel drive, there is a second PSM on the front axle, that can be engaged or disengaged. While pricing details remain unconfirmed, the aim is to ensure a competitive entry-level price. It is anticipated that the electric GLC will be priced similarly to the combustion engine model, potentially starting around 70,000 euros.
