Mercedes-Benz emphasizes on efficiency, electric vehicle range, and robust charging capabilities
Mercedes-Benz Unveils Electric GLC at IAA in Munich
Mercedes-Benz is set to debut a new electric variant of its popular compact luxury SUV, the GLC, at the IAA in Munich this September. The new model, which features a plug-in hybrid powertrain, is set to stand out with its strong design identity and impressive performance.
Gorden Wagener, the design chief of Mercedes-Benz, has stated that the new design will give future models a strong identity. This is evident in the new electric GLC, which already hints at its design language in the concept car Vision V. One noticeable change is the higher, more distinctive radiator grille, while the new model also boasts an illuminated radiator frame.
Under the hood, the electric GLC is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine paired with an electric motor. This combination delivers a total system output of 313 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. The model's 23.3 kWh battery provides up to 54 miles of electric-only range, and when combining gas and electric usage, it achieves an EPA-rated combined fuel economy equivalent of 64 mpg.
The new electric GLC is based on the new MB.EA platform, an architecture specifically developed for electric vehicles. This platform supports an 800-volt system that enables charging powers of over 320 kW. With this system, a range of up to around 260 kilometers can be added in just ten minutes.
The electric GLC also features a unique One Box brake system. The brake pedal is decoupled from the actual brake system, with software precisely calculating the ratio between recuperation and mechanical braking. This system is said to be a "game-changer" for efficiency, according to the chief engineer of the electric GLC, Dominik Voogdt.
Mercedes has also developed a particularly compact heat pump system for the electric GLC, enabling an additional 100-liter frunk. The model will come with a 94.5 kWh battery pack, and the loading capacity surpasses the loading capacity of the combustion engine variants, which will continue to be offered alongside plug-in hybrids on the current platform.
In addition to the plug-in hybrid variant, the GLC model lineup includes gasoline-only and AMG versions. However, the plug-in hybrid 350e variant stands out for its efficiency and electric range, making it a significant part of the electrification focus highlighted at the Munich debut.
An AMG version of the electric GLC with axial flux-based motors and up to 447 kW (608 PS) is planned for 2027. The rear-wheel-drive version of the electric GLC is expected to offer a range of up to approximately 700 kilometers according to the WLTP standard.
With the new electric GLC, Mercedes-Benz is not only expanding its electric vehicle offerings but also ushering in a new design era. The model marks the beginning of a shift towards a more sustainable future for the luxury car manufacturer.
[1] Car and Driver [2] Mercedes-Benz USA [3] Motor Authority [4] Green Car Reports
- The new electric GLC, with its sleek design and impressive performance, is set to revolutionize the automotive industry, signaling Mercedes-Benz's commitment to a more sustainable future in the technology sector.
- Mercedes-Benz's electric GLC, boasting a unique One Box brake system and 800-volt charging system, is poised to reshape both the transportation and finance industries, with its impressive fuel economy and charging capabilities making it a prime choice for environmentally-conscious consumers.
- As the luxury car manufacturer continues to expand its electric vehicle offerings, including plans for an AMG version in 2027, the automotive and finance industries will likely see significant changes, with Mercedes-Benz's focus on electrification impacting the broader industry landscape.
