Mercedes-Benz India has launched the GLC Electric at a starting price of Rs 78.5 lakh (ex-showroom), expanding its luxury electric SUV portfolio in the country. Locally assembled at the carmaker's Chakan facility in Pune, the electric SUV will initially be available in the 400 4MATIC variant.
It features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup, a 94kWh battery pack and a claimed WLTP range of up to 715km. Moreover, deliveries will commence from Diwali this year.The GLC Electric brings together Mercedes-Benz's latest electric vehicle technology, including an 800-volt electrical architecture, advanced driver assistance systems and the fourth-generation MBUX infotainment system.
Here's a closer look at its design, features, performance and technology.Mercedes-Benz GLC Electric: DimensionsThe GLC Electric measures 4,845mm in length, 1,913mm in width and 1,644mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,972mm. This is 84mm longer than the wheelbase of the combustion-powered GLC, translating into an additional 47mm of rear legroom, according to Mercedes-Benz.The electric SUV offers 570 litres of boot space, which can be expanded to 1,740 litres by folding the rear seats.
It also gets a front luggage compartment with a claimed capacity of 128 litres. Despite its electric powertrain, the GLC Electric retains practical capabilities, including a towing capacity of up to 2.4 tonnes and a permitted drawbar load of 100kg.
Its kerb weight stands at 2,535kg.Mercedes-Benz GLC Electric: Exterior designThe GLC Electric features an upright front grille with 942 illuminated elements, incorporating the three-pointed star logo. The grille is flanked by LED headlamps with Mercedes-Benz's signature tri-star daytime running lights.
The side profile features a sloping roofline, silver roof rails and chrome detailing around the windows and lower doors. The India-spec model gets 20-inch alloy wheels and flush-fitting door handles.At the rear, the SUV features a full-width gloss-black panel housing LED tail-lamps with star-shaped lighting elements.
The overall design distinguishes the electric version from its combustion-powered counterpart.Mercedes-Benz GLC Electric: Interior and technologyOne of the biggest highlights of the cabin is the 99.3cm (39.1-inch) MBUX Hyperscreen, which combines the digital instrument cluster, central infotainment display and front passenger screen into a single seamless display.The electric SUV gets the fourth-generation MBUX infotainment system, incorporating artificial intelligence technology from Microsoft and Google. Its Multi Agent Approach allows the virtual assistant to handle more complex, multi-turn conversations.
Google's Automotive AI Agent, powered by Google Cloud, is also integrated for navigation-related queries.Another key feature is the SKY CONTROL panoramic roof, which uses switchable glass technology to alternate between transparent and opaque settings. The roof can also illuminate 162 stars through the ambient lighting system.Mercedes-Benz GLC Electric: Features and safetyThe GLC Electric comes equipped with the Mercedes-Benz MB.DRIVE driver-assistance suite, which uses inputs from up to 10 external cameras, five radar sensors and 12 ultrasonic sensors.Depending on the market and configuration, the system offers features such as adaptive cruise control, steering assistance, lane-change assistance and automated parking functions.Other equipment highlights include DIGITAL LIGHT with micro-LED technology, keyless go with hands-free access and a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety systems.Mercedes-Benz will also offer an optional Vegan Package, featuring interior materials independently certified by The Vegan Society.Mercedes-Benz GLC Electric: Battery, performance and rangePowering the India-spec GLC 400 4MATIC is a 94kWh NMC battery pack paired with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system.
The powertrain produces a combined 489bhp and 800Nm of torque.The electric SUV can accelerate from 0 to 100kmph in a claimed 4.3 seconds, while its top speed is rated at 210kmph. Mercedes-Benz claims a maximum WLTP range of 715km, although the official technical range varies between 568km and 715km depending on the configuration and driving conditions.The GLC Electric is based on an 800-volt electrical architecture and supports DC fast charging at up to 330kW.
The battery can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent in a claimed 22 minutes. A 10-minute charging session can add up to 305km of WLTP range under specified conditions.For home and conventional AC charging, the SUV gets an 11kW onboard charger as standard, with an optional 22kW AC charging system.Mercedes-Benz GLC Electric: Suspension and driving technologyThe GLC Electric gets AIRMATIC air suspension with intelligent suspension control.
Buyers can also opt for rear-wheel steering, which turns the rear wheels by up to 4.5 degrees. This reduces the turning circle from 12.1 metres to 11.2 metres, improving manoeuvrability in tighter spaces.The SUV also features a One-Box braking system that combines regenerative braking with conventional friction braking.
Its regenerative braking system offers recuperation of up to approximately 300kW and four levels: D-, D, D+ and D Auto.For off-road driving, the GLC Electric gets a dedicated TERRAIN mode and a transparent-bonnet function. The latter uses camera feeds to display the terrain beneath the front of the vehicle, helping the driver negotiate difficult surfaces.Subscribe to Auto Today Magazine - Ends