If you want an electric vehicle in the U.S. going forward, you’re likely buying a luxury vehicle. Mercedes-Benz appears to be making sure you have plenty of options, unveiling its all-new electric GLC coming in the second half of next year.
Mercedes officials took the covers off its all-electric GLC SUV for the 2026 model year.
Mercedes’ bestseller globally is the GLC, and it intends to ride the success of the little crossover into the EV market. The German automaker revealed its new all-electric version of the GLC Sept. 7. The crossover made its debut in 2023 as an SUV, but it is available in SUV and coupe styles.
“Purposeful, refined and unmistakably a GLC, it further enhances everything Mercedes-Benz customers adore,” the company noted in a release, adding that it “marks a turning point in the midsize segment.”
It’s an electric-first variant of the GLC, and while it’s officially the “all-new GLC with EQ Technology,” it’s part of the company’s plans to move away from the unsuccessful EQ nomenclature for its earlier EVs.
“The biggest product-launch program in our company’s history continues with the all-new GLC,” said Ola Källenius, chairman of the Board of Management, Mercedes-Benz Group AG.
“We’re not just introducing a new model — we’re electrifying our top seller. It will feature a bold new design language, cutting-edge technology, our MB.OS operating system and performance that sparks excitement. The all-new GLC is comfort, dynamics, efficiency and intelligence in perfect harmony.”
Mercedes’ bestseller globally is the GLC, and it intends to ride the success of the little crossover into the EV market.
All things to all people
First and foremost, the new all-electric GLC is a Mercedes, which means plenty of luxury and strong performance. The company is quick to note it offers more legroom and headroom than the gas-powered version — seemingly one of the biggest advantages of EVs — while being able to tow more than 5,200 pounds.
Not only does it feature the MBUX Hyperscreen, but it’s also the biggest Hyperscreen available at 39.1 inches across. Mercedes isn’t shy on the technology front, and making it look impressive in the process.
All those lights and screens can be balanced out with Mercedes’ new optional Vegan Package, which has been certified by The Vegan Society. This means that all touch points in the vehicle’s interior, from the high quality ARTICO replica leather seats to the steering wheel, door trims and center console have been tested and certified by the Vegan Society’s Trademark team.
Mercedes plans to offer the Vegan Package to other vehicle lines as well in the future, the organization noted in its own press release lauding the automaker’s move. You can find it on the Mercedes configurator by looking for the sunflower logo.
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EV stuff
The new electric GLC can tow about 5,200 pounds.
While everyone expects an electric vehicle to go fast, and at 483 horsepower for the top model it does, just how far it can go on a single charge is the new measure for EVs. In this case, it can travel about 440 miles on a full charge, officials noted.
Additionally, the 94kWh battery can add up to 185 miles of range in 10 minutes. The new 800-volt architecture allows for quick charging, although there aren’t many of those around. With a DC converter, it can handle up to a 400-volt DC charger. However, because it’s a Mercedes, there is an “experience” that can be had with it.
Owners can enjoy a seamless and intuitive experience with the integrated reservation function for charging stations as part of Digital Extra: MB.CHARGE Public. Mercedes is teaming with Alpitronic to use is HYC1000 fast-charging system.
It provides up to 600 kW per charging point. The company is expanding its current fast-charging network to include these new faster charging stations. A single charging point can deliver up to 600 kW at 800 volts. The new chargers will begin showing up next year.
It’s an electric-first variant of the GLC, and while it’s officially the “all-new GLC with EQ Technology.”
Tech laden
The all-new GLC’s benchmark intelligence is powered by the AI-driven MB.OS supercomputer for a more intuitive, immersive experience. It’s designed, according to Mercedes, to control every aspect of the GLC. The infotainment and advanced driver assistance systems are tied into this new operating system.
It can learn driver preferences over time and “handle complexity akin to the human brain.” It also handles the over-the-air updates coming from Mercedes.
The chip-to-cloud architecture is deeply integrated, ensuring data protection and connectivity from chip to cloud. This allows precise control over all actuators and sensors, from infotainment to comfort to charging, providing an unparalleled driving experience and intelligent integration of vehicle functions into the user interface.
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