Mercedes-Benz Unveils Next-Gen Electric GLC Prototype
In spring 2025, Mercedes-Benz invited select journalists to its Immendingen test facility in Germany to sample the prototype of its forthcoming electric GLC SUV. Slated for a 2026 market debut, the model carries the EQ badge and sits atop Mercedes’ latest EVA2 EV platform. We spent a rainy day putting the prototype through its paces and gathered fresh insights on powertrain, charging, ride comfort, interior tech, and Mercedes’ broader EV strategy.
Prototype Driving Impressions
The Immendingen complex encompasses 520 hectares and 62 kilometers of track simulating conditions from ice to gravel, high-speed oval to twisting back roads. Settling into the camouflaged GLC prototype—interior masked in black fabric—immediately reveals familiar traits. The seating position and ergonomics echo the gasoline GLC, but with a subtly elongated wheelbase.
Dr Sarah Klein, chief EV engineer at Mercedes-Benz, notes that the extended chassis allows for optimized crash structures and underfloor battery integration without compromising dynamics
Despite prototype gear gaps in the MBUX infotainment software, the ride and handling felt refined. Mercedes engineers have dialed in adaptive air suspension that offers a near S-Class–level float in Comfort mode yet retains composure in Sport setting.
Powertrain and Battery Architecture
This EV uses a 94.5 kWh lithium nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery with tabless cell technology sourced from Mercedes’ new gigafactory in Poland. The pack resides under the floor, lowering the center of gravity by 50 millimeters compared to the gasoline GLC. Total system output reaches 360 kW (483 hp) in the dual-motor configuration, with 700 Nm of torque and a 2.4 ton towing capacity.
- Voltage architecture: 800 volts enabling higher charge currents and thinner cabling
- Battery chemistry: 90 percent nickel NMC with silicon-doped anode for 20 percent cycle life improvement
- Estimated range: 650 kilometers WLTP, or roughly 330 miles EPA
Fast-Charging Performance
Mercedes claims peak DC fast-charge power exceeding 320 kW. In testing, the prototype topped out at 315 kW on a 350 kW charger, adding 260 kilometers of WLTP range in 10 minutes. Thanks to the 800-V system and active thermal management, pack temperature remains within optimal bounds even on consecutive charging sessions.
New news from the recent IAA Mobility show reveals Mercedes will roll out an 850 kW charging standard in collaboration with Ionity by 2027. When deployed, the GLC will be capable of even faster replenishment.
Regenerative Braking and Energy Recapture
Steering-wheel paddles let drivers select from three regen levels plus one-pedal mode. Engineers advise avoiding the Auto setting on early prototypes; final calibration may shift in production models. One-pedal mode delivers up to 0.25 g of deceleration, smooth enough to reduce pedal fatigue without abrupt torque cuts. Unlike prior EQ models, the brake pedal remains static under regen, improving feedback.
Ride Comfort and Handling Dynamics
Adaptive air suspension with continuous damping control is tuned separately from the S-Class. In Comfort mode, body motions are quelled over expansion joints, US rural roads, and simulated cobblestones. Sport mode firms up the ride without intruding on highway refinement. On the high-speed oval, the GLC held stable at 210 km/h, thanks to an active rear antiroll bar system derived from AMG tech.
Interior and Software Ecosystem
The final interior will feature dual 12.3-inch displays running MBUX 3.0 on a centralized compute architecture. A forthcoming OTA update will enable digital key sharing and advanced voice assistant features. Rear occupants benefit from 82 millimeters extra legroom and a 570-liter trunk, plus a 100-liter front storage compartment.
Critics have noted the absence of a dedicated start button. Mercedes replaces it with intelligence that powers on when the driver sits and buckles up, streamlining the entry routine.
Competitive Landscape and Market Positioning
The new GLC EV will compete against models like the BMW iX3, Audi Q4 e-tron, and Volvo EX90. With its blend of luxury ride, fast charging, and Mercedes brand equity, analysts at BloombergNEF project annual GLC EV deliveries of 60,000 units in Europe by 2027. Pricing is expected to start near 70,000 euros.
Future Technologies: MB.OS and Autonomous Features
Mercedes’ next-generation operating system, MB.OS 3.0, will debut on the GLC, offering improved domain controller integration across powertrain, chassis, and infotainment. Level 2+ driver assistance with adaptive cruise drive pilot gains highway hands-off capability where regulations permit. By 2028, a Level 3 version could be enabled via OTA.
Conclusion and Outlook
Our prototype drive confirms that Mercedes has engineered an electric GLC that rides like a luxury sedan, charges at blistering speeds, and retains everyday usability. Final validation awaits production models and real-world testing, but initial impressions are highly promising. With a robust technical foundation, advanced software stack, and Mercedes-premier ride comfort, the upcoming GLC EV is poised to set a new benchmark in the luxury electric SUV segment.