Mercedes-Benz presented its new weapon for the Chinese market at Auto China 2026 held in Beijing – the GLC L EV electric SUV. It is a long-wheelbase version of the best-selling GLC that has taken many innovations from the brand’s premium sedan – the S-Class. Mercedes-Benz wants a win in China since local firms are rapidly dominating the country’s luxury market segment.
The design of the GLC L EV reflects both the past and future of the automobile company. Mercedes-Benz has designed the front side of its electric SUV in such a way as to resemble the traditional grille in the form of a shield that brings the GLC in line with the most advanced styling that highlights the rich history of the brand. However, this classic-looking grille includes 942 little lights that make the grille “breathe” and display different patterns while unlocking the vehicle and charging it. There is also a shining logo on the grille in the shape of a star. The headlights of the SUV are digital LED ones capable of switching between the high beam and the low beam independently.
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First of all, the most significant alteration relates to the dimensions. In China, consumers tend to prefer maximum legroom inside their vehicles. Thus, when designing the GLC L EV, Mercedes-Benz decided to make the body slightly longer than its counterparts. The body’s measurements are 4,949 mm (length), 1,970 mm (width), and 1,710 mm (height). Besides, it features an impressive wheelbase of 3,027 mm. Compared to the standard edition, the car has 55 mm extra length overall, while the body has grown by 104 mm. All additional dimensions are designed exclusively for rear occupants.
In the interior, there is a dashboard completely made from glass. The MBUX super screen is 39.1 inches large and has two screens: one in the middle measuring 14.4 inches and another one exclusively for front passengers with the same diagonal. The processor of the system is Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 and, therefore, users will not have any difficulties when interacting with the screens. Moreover, now drivers will be able to use a virtual assistant named “Xiao Ben” (“Little Benz”).
It must be said that Mercedes-Benz did not spare the options for passenger comfort – both front seats are equipped with heating, cooling and even massage functions. The interior is covered in luxurious leather, while the audio is provided by the Burmester sound system. When looking at the roof, one is likely to find a large panoramic sunroof that offers nine variants of transparency. You can choose how clear it should be or how opaque so as to block out the sunlight. Moreover, the GLC L EV has a 128-liter front trunk useful for luggage and charging.
Under its hood, the car hides equally good systems. Specifically, the electric SUV features the 800V system, making fast charging possible. Should the driver wish, it is capable of adding 260 km of range in ten minutes. As was mentioned above, the car’s battery pack has a total capacity of 89 kWh, and according to the standards used in China, such battery provides more than 700 km of travel on one full charge. What is more, the GLC L EV boasts dual-motor technology delivering a remarkable 310 kW of power, which equals about 416 hp. The SUV is also capable of developing 800
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Most components of the new large all-electric Mercedes are derived from the S-Class. Air suspension with automatic adjustment according to road conditions is standard, providing adjustable comfort in any circumstances. It allows adjusting the vehicle’s ride height. Rear axle steering technology was introduced by Mercedes-Benz engineers in order to facilitate maneuvers in narrow city roads. The rear wheels can pivot up to 4.5 degrees, which significantly improves maneuverability of such a large SUV.
GLC L EV arrives at an unfavorable period for the German manufacturer. Despite monthly sales of about 30,000 to 40,000 cars, Mercedes-Benz continues to lose its position in the country. Local manufacturers create quite advanced electric vehicles, yet they are much cheaper than their German counterparts. Last year, Mercedes-Benz attempted to offer its small CLA L EV to Chinese customers, yet the sales were rather poor. Now, with S-Class luxury and additional space for passengers, the German company hopes to lure customers back to “Little Benz.”
