Mercedes-Benz has launched the all-new GLC Electric mid-size SUV in India, at ₹78.5 lakh (introductory). The luxury SUV is offered in the GLC 400 4Matic guise and will be locally assembled at the German carmaker’s Chakan facility in Pune. With a claimed WLTP range of 711 km, 483 bhp and a host of new technology, the GLC Electric brings a new dimension to the brand’s popular SUV line-up. The model made its global debut earlier this year and is now available in India.
The India-spec GLC 400 4Matic Electric is powered by a 94 kWh battery pack paired with a dual-motor setup. The system produces a combined 483 bhp and 800 Nm of torque, giving the SUV all-wheel-drive capability. Mercedes-Benz claims a 0 to 100 kph sprint time of 4.3 seconds, and a 210 kph top whack.
The GLC Electric is based on an 800-volt electrical architecture and supports DC fast charging at up to 330 kW. Mercedes-Benz claims that the battery can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent in around 22 minutes, while a 10 minute charging session can add up to 309 km of range under specified conditions. The SUV also gets a two-speed gearbox on the rear motor, aimed at improving acceleration and efficiency at higher speeds. The claimed WLTP range stands at up to 711 km.
The GLC Electric gets a distinctive design that sets it apart from its combustion-powered counterpart. The front end features a large illuminated grille with 942 lighting elements, flanked by LED headlights with Mercedes-Benz’s signature tri-star daytime running lights. The front three-pointed star is illuminated as well. The SUV gets flush-fitting door handles, silver roof rails and 20-inch AMG Line alloy wheels. At the rear, star-shaped LED tail-lights are connected by a gloss-black band running across the tailgate. The electric GLC also gets a 128-litre frunk, while the rear luggage compartment offers a claimed 570 litres of space.
Inside, the highlight is the massive 39.1-inch MBUX Hyperscreen, which spans the dashboard and integrates the digital instrument cluster, central infotainment system and front passenger display. The system runs on the latest-generation MBUX interface and features a built-in AI assistant. Mercedes-Benz has also retained physical controls on the steering wheel and centre console, while the cabin gets open-pore wood trim and metallic accents. Other highlights include a panoramic glass roof with electrochromic effect, powered and heated front seats with massage functions (although they don’t get ventilation), multi-colour ambient lighting and a 15-speaker 670 W Burmester surround-sound system. Safety equipment includes nine airbags, a head-up display, surround-view cameras and a comprehensive Level 2 ADAS suite.
The GLC will rival the BMW iX and the Audi Q8 e-tron.
