Mercedes-Benz has officially unveiled its new all-electric GLC, dubbed the 'GLC with EQ Technology,' marking a significant shift in the automaker's electric vehicle strategy. This model, which had its global premiere at the IAA Mobility show in Munich, is a cornerstone of Mercedes' ambitious plan to launch 40 new models by the end of 2027, representing the largest product investment in its history. Crucially, the new GLC EV is the first vehicle to utilize the innovative MB.EA architecture, a flexible platform designed to underpin a broad range of forthcoming models, including the C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, and their SUV counterparts.

Unlike previous Mercedes EQ family vehicles, which were intentionally designed to look distinct from their internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts, the new GLC embodies a unified design philosophy. Mercedes aims for its electric vehicles to look similar to its traditional mainstream models, with the electric variants simply adding “with EQ Technology” to their moniker. This change reflects a matured EV market where customers prioritize model choice over powertrain differentiation. The vehicle’s front fascia features a massive, illuminated grille adorned with 942 animated dots that can greet and bid farewell to the driver, alongside a lit-up three-pointed star. This new aesthetic, which preserves the essence of Mercedes-Benz, draws inspiration from classic models like the 600 Pullman, W108, and W126, offering a modern take on historical design cues. Despite its imposing grille, the new GLC boasts an impressive drag coefficient of 0.26Cd, and an AMG Line package is available for a more sporting appearance. Stylish LED lights front and rear, with star-like taillight treatments, complete the sophisticated exterior.

Underpinning the 'electric-first' design, the GLC with EQ Technology will initially launch as the GLC 400 4Matic. This variant features two electric motors delivering a combined 483bhp and 596 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0-60 mph acceleration in a swift 4.4 seconds. The all-wheel-drive system is intelligently designed, disconnecting the front motor when not required to enhance efficiency. A two-speed gearbox at the rear further optimizes both acceleration and energy consumption. Power is supplied by a 94kWh usable lithium-ion battery, providing a mighty WLTP range of 443 miles (700 kilometers), though EPA estimates are expected to be slightly over 300 miles. The vehicle’s advanced 800-volt architecture supports rapid charging at up to 330kW, allowing for an impressive 185-186 miles of range to be added in just 10 minutes, and a 10-80 percent charge in approximately 24 minutes. Mercedes also offers the convenience of reserving a charging plug from the car when using its dedicated charging parks. Following the GLC 400, a single-motor, rear-wheel-drive GLC 300 will be introduced, offering 369 hp and 372 lb-ft of torque with an estimated 0-60 mph time of 5.9 seconds.

The new GLC also introduces several advanced chassis and dynamic features. Optional air suspension, derived from the S-Class, intelligently uses Google Maps data to maintain the lowest possible ride height for improved aerodynamics. Optional rear-wheel steering provides 4.5 degrees of angle, significantly reducing the turning circle to a tidy 11.2 meters (36.7 feet) and enhancing high-speed stability. Both models boast a substantial towing capacity of up to 2.4 tonnes (approximately 5,300 lbs). The regenerative braking system is highly efficient, capable of up to 300kW recuperation, with Mercedes estimating that over 99 percent of slowing down will be handled regeneratively. A new "One Box" braking system introduces a true one-pedal driving mode with full-stop capability, offering three levels of regen and a "D Auto" mode that uses map data to optimize energy harvesting. A heat pump is fitted as standard, optimizing efficiency in varying climates. Drivers can also select from multiple drive modes, including a 'Terrain mode' that offers a "transparent bonnet" camera view of the area immediately in front of the vehicle.

Inside, the GLC EV promises enhanced comfort and cutting-edge technology. The wheelbase has been extended by 84mm, resulting in more leg and headroom. Cargo space includes 570 liters in the boot and a useful 128 liters (4.5 cubic feet) in the frunk, accessible by pressing the Mercedes logo on the hood. The boot features an adjustable cargo floor and 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats. The highlight of the interior is the optional, new-generation MBUX Hyperscreen, a seamless 39.1-inch single-piece touchscreen stretching across nearly the entire width of the dashboard. This super-sharp display utilizes 'innovative matrix-backlight technology' and offers 11 different 'styles' that influence background motifs, ambient lighting, and dial displays. Mid-trim models will feature a "Superscreen" setup with three distinct displays (10.3-inch driver, 14.0-inch center, and 14.0-inch passenger), while base models will include a non-touchscreen passenger display for owner-uploaded photos. A panoramic roof is standard, with an optional switchable glass technology that can render different zones opaque or illuminate 162 Mercedes stars above occupants. A fully vegan interior option, certified by The Vegan Society, ensures no animal-derived materials, including adhesives and dyes, are used. Mercedes also highlights the return of physical buttons to the steering wheel, though these primarily consist of haptic switches alongside two small physical scrollers. The AI-enhanced MBUX Virtual Assistant, powered by Microsoft and Google, aims to provide a conversational experience. The MB.OS operating system, which debuted on the new CLA-Class, offers features like facial recognition for profile login, Mercedes Pay+ for remote payments, video streaming, Teams videoconferencing, and over-the-air updates. Further interior luxuries include a 4D Burmeister sound system that vibrates the seats and ambient lights that can pulse with music or flash warnings from driver assistance systems, alongside four selectable fake sound modes for the EV driving experience.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ Technology is slated to arrive in late 2026. While official U.S.-spec pricing is pending, estimates place the base price between $60,000 and $75,000, with the GLC 400 expected to start around $75,000 and the single-motor GLC 300 potentially dipping into the low $60,000s. Mercedes-Benz’s leadership, including chairman Ola Källenius and chief design officer Gorden Wagener, emphasized that the decision to unify EV and ICE model aesthetics reflects a new era where brand identity, rather than powertrain differentiation, is paramount. With its blend of advanced technology, impressive performance, and a design that resonates with mainstream appeal, the battery-powered GLC aims to build on the success of its gas-powered predecessor, Mercedes-Benz’s bestseller in the U.S.