Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ Technology
Best-selling GLC to be integrated with BEV-spec EQC
The GLC recorded the highest sales volume of any Mercedes-Benz SUV in 2024. The next-generation model will be integrated with the fully electric model “EQC,” while the model with a traditional powertrain is scheduled to debut as “GLC with EQ Technology.”
The mid-size SUV “GLC” is set to become the best-selling model in Mercedes-Benz’s SUV lineup in 2024. Mercedes-Benz is currently developing the next-generation model, and has now unveiled footage of cold-weather testing of the “GLC with EQ Technology,” which is equipped with a fully electric powertrain.
Mercedes-Benz is introducing a variety of powertrains to each of its models, and the new GLC will integrate the fully electric EQC model. A variety of options will be available, including gasoline and diesel engines with hybrid systems, as well as the latest fully electric powertrains.
The GLC with EQ Technology, currently under development, will feature a fully electric powertrain based on a new 800V architecture. Available with a range of battery capacities, it will set new benchmarks in performance, range, efficiency and charging speed, while maintaining the practicality expected of the GLC.
A heavily camouflaged “GLC with EQ Technology” prototype underwent cold weather testing in the polar region of Arjeplog, Sweden. Brought to sub-zero icy and snowy roads, the test vehicle demonstrated its expected performance even in harsh conditions. Christoph Starzynski, Vice President Vehicle Development at Mercedes-Benz Group AG, had this to say about the next-generation GLC:
“The new GLC with its fully electric powertrain is being developed without compromise. During cold weather tests in Sweden, the fully electric GLC proved its reliability and robustness even under the harshest conditions.”
Demonstrates stable driving performance even on severe snowy roads
The heavily camouflaged GLC with EQ Technology, equipped with the latest drive system, demonstrated stable traction and braking levels even on the slippery icy and snowy roads of Sweden.
During cold weather testing in Arjeplog, Sweden, within the Arctic Circle, the new GLC with EQ technology demonstrated its excellent ride comfort, handling, and traction performance thanks to its 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. The all-wheel drive model is equipped with a powerful front axle drive unit and a Disconnect Unit (DCU) that quickly switches drive on and off depending on road conditions.
The DCU uses sensors to detect spinning wheels and distributes torque optimally between the front and rear axles to ensure optimal traction and driving stability on slippery snow and ice. The electric motors on the front and rear axles are independently controlled, so the optimum level of drive force is maintained at all times.
The highly responsive all-wheel drive system and precise steering proved impressive even on the snowy and icy Swedish course, while the brake system integrates the previously separately controlled brake booster, master cylinder and ESP management into a compact module, providing precise and consistent braking feel.
This integrated braking system precisely controls regenerative energy, significantly extending the vehicle’s range and allowing the driver to brake naturally, regardless of whether regenerative braking or friction braking is used. Even if an error occurs in the regenerative system, the system reliably switches to hydraulic friction braking, ensuring safe braking at all times.
The new GLC with EQ Technology comes standard with an air-side heat pump. The heat pump is integrated into the air conditioning system and provides cooling in the summer and heating in the winter. When heating the interior, the system simultaneously utilizes three energy sources: waste heat from the electric unit, waste heat from the battery, and the surrounding air. This reduces power consumption by approximately one-third compared to conventional systems. Furthermore, by maintaining the high-voltage battery at an optimal temperature before fast charging, the system achieves extremely high charging performance.
