Mercedes-Benz GLC Electric Launched At Rs. 78.5 Lakh In India
Mercedes-Benz has launched the GLC Electric in India at an introductory price of Rs. 78.5 lakhs (ex-showroom). The electric SUV is locally assembled and becomes the brand’s new entry-level electric SUV in the country. It is offered in the GLC 400 4Matic variant and features an all-new electric platform, distinct from the architecture used by the ICE-powered GLC.
The company claims to have received over 1000 bookings since opening orders for the SUV. Mercedes-Benz says the model is already sold out until March 2027, while customer deliveries are scheduled to begin around Diwali.
The GLC Electric comes with a 94kWh battery pack and has a claimed WLTP range of 711 km. Other highlights include a 39.1-inch dashboard-spanning Hyperscreen, an illuminated front grille and an all-wheel-drive powertrain producing 490 HP.
Mercedes-Benz GLC Electric: Exterior Design
The GLC Electric gets a distinctive front-end design, with an illuminated grille featuring 914 individual lighting elements. These pixels can display different lighting animations depending on the vehicle’s status. Mercedes-Benz says the grille draws inspiration from the brand’s traditional vertical grille designs seen on classic models such as the W 108 and W 114.
The LED headlamps and tail lamps feature three-pointed star elements in their lighting signatures. The India-spec model also gets the AMG Line styling package as standard, adding sportier bumpers and 20-inch alloy wheels.
The overall design follows a relatively clean approach, with flowing body panels and limited use of exterior cladding. At the rear, a gloss-black panel connects the tail lamps and incorporates the Mercedes-Benz logo.
In terms of dimensions, the electric SUV is larger than its combustion-powered counterpart. It is 140 mm longer, 23 mm wider and 12 mm taller, while its wheelbase has increased by 84 mm to 2972 mm.
Mercedes-Benz will offer the GLC Electric in six exterior shades: Sheer Blue, Lavender Silver, Obsidian Black, Opalite White Bright, Patagonia Red Metallic and Alpine Grey Solid. The latter three are part of the Manufaktur paint range.
Mercedes-Benz GLC Electric: Interior And Features
The cabin’s main highlight is the 39.1-inch MBUX Hyperscreen, which extends across the dashboard. Unlike conventional multi-screen arrangements, it uses a single continuous display panel without visible partitions. The system features high-resolution graphics and offers 11 preset display themes.
However, the extensive reliance on touchscreen controls means there are very few physical buttons, including for operating the climate control system. This could take some getting used to for occupants who prefer conventional controls.
The cabin features a combination of wood, metal and leather finishes. Equipment includes a four-spoke AMG Line steering wheel, knurled metal-finished AC vents and a 15-speaker Burmester 3D sound system. Buyers can choose between Black, Beech Brown and Ivory Beige interior themes.
Other features include a panoramic glass roof with illuminated stars, ambient lighting, two wireless charging pads, a powered tailgate and electrically folding rear seats. The glass roof gets electronically adjustable opacity, although it does not feature a conventional sunshade.
The front seats offer heating and massage functions but miss out on ventilation. Safety and driver assistance equipment includes nine airbags, Level 2 ADAS, eight cameras, five radar sensors, a 360-degree camera and an automated parking assistance system.
The electric SUV offers 570 litres of boot capacity, along with an additional 128-litre storage compartment at the front.
Mercedes-Benz GLC Electric: Battery, Range And Performance
The GLC Electric is available in India in the GLC 400 4Matic configuration. It uses a 94kWh battery pack powering two electric motors, one mounted on each axle. The setup delivers a combined output of 490 HP and 800 Nm of torque, with power sent to all four wheels.
Mercedes-Benz claims a 0-100 km/hr acceleration time of 4.3 seconds. Interestingly, the SUV also gets a two-speed transmission, designed to balance acceleration and efficiency at different speeds.
The claimed WLTP range stands at 711 km on a full charge. For charging, Mercedes-Benz is offering a 22kW AC charger as standard. When connected to a compatible 330kW DC fast charger, the company claims the battery can gain enough charge for approximately 300 km of driving range in 10 minutes.
The India-spec model does not get rear-wheel steering or air suspension. Instead, it uses conventional passive dampers.
Mercedes-Benz GLC Electric: Rivals
The GLC Electric currently has no direct rival in the Indian luxury electric SUV segment. However, the upcoming BMW iX3 is expected to enter the Indian market next year and could become a key competitor.
With local assembly, a long claimed driving range and a feature-rich cabin, the GLC Electric strengthens Mercedes-Benz’s electric vehicle portfolio in India. Its pricing also places it within reach of buyers considering premium electric SUVs, although its touchscreen-heavy cabin and lack of certain comfort features are worth considering.
