Mercedes-Benz GLC Goes Electric with EQ Technology

Saudi Arabia:  Mercedes-Benz has just introduced the first fully electric GLC SUV with EQ Technology. It has an impressive range and advanced features to rival BMW, Audi, and Porsche in KSA.

• It has a 94.0 kWh battery with up to 483 hp, which tops the BMW iX3.
• It has 443-mile WLTP range with 330 kW ultra-fast charging.
• It also has advanced suspension with Car-to-X and rear-axle steering.

The Mercedes-Benz GLC is one of the most successful SUVs from the brand, since its debut. Now, there has been a major leap forward with the launch of the all-electric GLC that features EQ Technology.

This is the first time the GLC is coming in a fully electric version for global markets and that positions it directly against rivals like the BMW iX3, Audi Q6, and Porsche Macan EV.

Power and Range

There is a 94.0-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery at the heart of the electric GLC. It is capable of producing up to 483 horsepower. This means it is ahead of the BMW iX3, which peaks at 463 horsepower. The SUV, with an optional trailer hitch, offers a towing capacity of 5,291 pounds and that makes it versatile for use in city and for leisure.

The GLC, thanks to its 800-volt architecture, can travel up to 443 miles (713 kilometres) on the WLTP cycle. This range will likely be lower under stricter EPA testing, but it remains competitive in its class. Another highlight is the ultra-fast charging. The GLC, at 330 kilowatts, can recover a range of 188 miles (303 kilometres) in just 10 minutes.

Driving and Suspension Technology

Mercedes has carried over Airmatic suspension from the flagship S-Class, with a blend of comfort and innovation. The intelligent suspension system integrates a Car-to-X function, which makes use of data to detect potholes and adjust damping before the vehicle reaches them.

• Ride-height control leverages Google Maps to optimise aerodynamics.
• Optional rear-axle steering helps enhance manoeuvrability, and turn up to 4.5 degrees.
• The company prioritises stability and handling across driving in the city and off-road.

Safety and Assistance Features

The electric GLC, as expected, comes with lots of safety and driver-assistance systems. MB.Drive helps give it adaptive cruise control and semi-autonomous hands-free driving.

It is also simple to park with MB.Parking Assist, which uses semi-autonomous functions to guide the SUV into tight spaces.

Design and Interior

Mercedes gives a bold exterior design to the GLC EQ. The standout feature is the illuminated grille with 942 optional LED points and a central tri-star logo. LED headlights are standard, while the Digital Light upgrade gives subtle tri-star patterns to the running lights in daytime.

The SUV rides on a 117.0-inch wheelbase, which offers more interior space than its petrol counterpart. On the inside, passengers benefit from vegan leather certified by The Vegan Society, with premium Torino and Nappa leather options. Cargo space adds 4.5 cubic feet of storage.

The 39.1-inch Hyperscreen dominates the cabin. It integrates customisable digital displays powered by the latest MBUX system, with added support from Microsoft and Google AI. Mercedes, despite this futuristic tech, retains physical controls for ease of use.

Launch Timeline

The new Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ Technology will officially go on sale in the US in the second half of 2026. Pricing will likely sit slightly above the petrol-powered GLC, which starts at $50,800. Customers in the Kingdom can expect the model to follow soon after as Mercedes expands its EQ portfolio in the region.