The all-new Electric Mercedes‑Benz GLC—officially dubbed the GLC 400 4MATIC with EQ Technology—marks a pivotal moment in Mercedes‑Benz’s move towards mainstream electrification. Debuting at the Munich IAA Mobility show on 7 September 2025, this electric model reimagines one of the brand’s best-selling SUVs for a new era.

A Bold New Platform & Charging Breakthrough

• Built on Mercedes’ purpose‑designed MB.EA platform, the GLC EV abandons the old EQC architecture, offering a flexible foundation for future models like the electric C‑Class.
• An 800‑volt architecture with DC fast charging capability up to 320 kW enables staggering speed: up to 260 km (≈161 mi) of WLTP range added in just 10 minutes.

Powertrain & Performance

• The launch GLC 400 4MATIC model features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup, delivering approximately 483 hp (360 kW)—sporting brisk acceleration with strong highway performance.
• A rear-wheel-drive single-motor variant is also planned, offering efficiency for entry-level trim.
• A sophisticated two-speed rear-axle transmission, combined with a Disconnect Unit (DCU) that disengages the front motor when not needed, optimizes efficiency during steady cruising.

Range, Battery & Charging Features

• Powered by a 94.5 kWh NMC battery pack, the GLC EV is expected to deliver over 400 miles WLTP range, translating to roughly 320 miles in EPA terms.
• With fast charging support at over 320 kW and compatibility with both 800 V and standard 400 V networks via an onboard converter, it delivers versatility across global charging options.

Design & Packaging

• The GLC EV embraces a new design identity: a more upright and prominent grille, slim head- and taillamps with star-themed LED graphics, and cleaner, more angular SUV proportions that break from the bubble-like EQC styling.
• Measuring 80 mm (~3.1″) longer in wheelbase than the ICE GLC, it delivers improved legroom and cabin space.

Cargo & Interior Space

• Rear cargo volume stands around 570 liters, just slightly less than the ICE model, but is compensated by a sizable 128‑litre “frunk” up front.
• Folding down the rear seats yields 1,740 liters of total load space—100 liters more than the gasoline GLC.

Cutting‑Edge Tech & Comfort Features

• Inside, the GLC EV will receive Mercedes’ next-generation MB.OS operating system and the MBUX Hyperscreen, offering immersive digital displays—including a passenger touchscreen enabling entertainment and cloud-gaming.
• It boasts airmàtic air suspension and rear-wheel steering with up to 4.5° rear-wheel angle, enhancing ride comfort, handling agility, and low-speed maneuverability.
• Braking gets reimagined: a brake-by-wire system fuses regenerative and friction braking smoothly, with fallback hydraulic support to ensure safety and consistent pedal feel.

Durability & Testing

• Prototypes underwent rigorous winter testing in Arjeplog, northern Sweden, enduring extreme cold and frozen terrain, showcasing the SUV’s resilience, efficiency retention, and systems reliability under harsh conditions.

Strategic Vision & Rival Landscape

• With the GLC EV, Mercedes abandons isolated “EQ” models in favour of a cohesive design language across ICE and electric models, making the transition simpler for customers. The electric models now closely mirror their combustion siblings.
• Positioned to compete directly with the Tesla Model Y, Porsche Macan EV, Audi Q6 e‑tron, and BMW iX3, the GLC EV leverages the brand’s strongest-selling crossover nameplate for broader appeal.

Final Take

Mercedes plans to launch the GLC 400 4MATIC with EQ Technology in early 2026, with production in Germany and China—and possibly the U.S. depending on trade and demand.

Representing a bold pivot in philosophy, the electric GLC merges familiar luxury and functionality with high-voltage hardware, digital innovation, and serious performance. It may well become the benchmark in its segment and set the blueprint for Mercedes‑Benz’s EV future.