The first thing worth pointing out is that the GLC Electric is not simply an electrified version of the existing petrol or diesel GLC. It has been developed around Mercedes-Benz\u2019s dedicated MB.EA-M electric vehicle architecture, and the difference is evident in its proportions. The electric SUV is larger than its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterpart, with a longer wheelbase and a more substantial overall footprint. This should also translate into better cabin space, something that is always welcome in a luxury SUV.<\/p>\n
The design is distinctly Mercedes-Benz, although there are a few interesting details that give the electric GLC its own identity. The front grille, for instance, takes inspiration from the classic W112 Mercedes-Benz models. It features an illuminated treatment with 942 individual light elements, creating a rather distinctive face, particularly when viewed at night. The lighting signatures at the front and rear add to the contemporary look, while the overall silhouette retains the familiar SUV stance that has made the GLC such a popular nameplate.<\/p>\n
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The illuminated front grille, featuring 942 individual light elements, gives the electric GLC a distinctive road presence.
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\n Special Arrangement\n <\/p>\n
Step inside, however, and it becomes clear that Mercedes-Benz has put considerable thought into making this a technology-led luxury experience. The dashboard is dominated by a massive 39.1-inch MBUX Hyperscreen, which stretches across the cabin and integrates the driver\u2019s display, central infotainment system and passenger screen into one continuous digital interface. It is quite a departure from the conventional dashboard layout and gives the cabin a distinctly futuristic feel. The system runs on Mercedes-Benz\u2019s MB.OS operating system, bringing together navigation, connected features, vehicle settings and intelligent assistance functions. The software architecture also supports over-the-air updates, allowing the vehicle to receive improvements and new features over time.<\/p>\n
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<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nThen there is the panoramic glass roof, which is arguably one of the more interesting features in the cabin. Called the SKY CONTROL panoramic roof, it features 162 illuminated stars that create a rather spectacular effect after dark. The roof can also switch between transparent and opaque settings, allowing occupants to control the amount of light entering the cabin. It is a small detail, perhaps, but one that adds a distinct sense of occasion to the GLC\u2019s otherwise technology-heavy interior.<\/p>\n
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The Mercedes-Benz GLC Electric gets a futuristic cabin dominated by the massive 39.1-inch MBUX Hyperscreen.
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Powering the GLC 400 4MATIC is a dual-motor setup, with one electric motor on each axle. The combined output stands at 489hp and 800Nm of torque, making this a seriously quick SUV. Mercedes-Benz claims a 0-100kmph time of just 4.3 seconds, while the top speed is electronically limited to 210kmph. The all-wheel-drive configuration should also ensure that all that performance to the ground effectively across varying road conditions.<\/p>\n
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The 800V electrical architecture supports DC fast charging at up to 330 kW, adding up to 303 km of range in 10 minutes under optimal conditions.
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The motors draw energy from a 94kWh usable battery pack, which gives the GLC Electric its headline-grabbing range of 711km on a single charge. This is the combined WLTP figure certified by ARAI. While real-world range will naturally depend on driving conditions and style, it is an impressive number for a luxury SUV of this size and performance. More importantly, it should help address one of the biggest concerns buyers have when considering a switch to an electric vehicle, particularly when the car is expected to undertake longer journeys.<\/p>\n
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<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nCharging is another area where the GLC Electric has some impressive numbers to offer. It uses an 800V electrical architecture and supports DC fast charging at up to 330kW. Under optimal conditions, Mercedes-Benz claims that the battery can gain up to 303km of range in just 10 minutes. That makes it more convenient to replenish the battery during a highway journey, provided, of course, that a compatible high-power charging station is available.<\/p>\n
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The SKY CONTROL panoramic glass roof features 162 illuminated stars and adjustable transparency.
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\n Special Arrangement\n <\/p>\n
The conventional GLC has been an important model for Mercedes-Benz in India, attracting close to 22,000 customers since its introduction in 2016. The electric version has some fairly big shoes to fill, but it also brings several compelling advantages of its own. The combination of a 711km claimed range, 489hp, rapid charging and a cabin that puts technology front and centre makes it a strong addition to the brand\u2019s growing electric vehicle portfolio.<\/p>\n
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The dual-motor setup produces 489 hp and 800 Nm of torque, enabling a 0\u2013100 km\/h sprint in 4.3 seconds.
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\n Special Arrangement\n <\/p>\n
Mercedes-Benz clearly sees the GLC Electric as an important part of its EV strategy for India, and it is not difficult to see why. It has the familiarity of an established luxury SUV nameplate, while bringing the performance and technology expected of a modern electric vehicle. Its positioning is further strengthened by India\u2019s more favourable tax structure for electric vehicles, which could make its final on-road prince lower then that of its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterpart in certain markets.<\/p>\n
The Mercedes-Benz GLC 400 4MATIC Electric is priced at \u20b978.50 lakh (ex-showroom).<\/i><\/p>\n
Motorscribes, in association with The Hindu, brings you the latest in cars and bikes. Follow them on @motorscribes<\/p>\n<\/div>\n