The new-gen Mercedes-Benz GLC EV SUV – officially dubbed the GLC with EQ Technology – has been officially previewed ahead of its full debut at the Munich Motor Show on September 7. While most design details remain under wraps, Mercedes-Benz has teased a brand-new grille design that will debut with the GLC EV and adorn the German luxury carmaker’s future line-up of electric cars.
- Mercedes GLC EV to get new illuminated grille with an LED matrix that plays animations
- Inside, the GLC EV will feature a newer version of the MBUX Hyperscreen
- The carmaker will eschew standalone EQ nameplates starting with the GLC EV
New Mercedes GLC EV design and interior details
Grille borrows styling cues from classic Mercedes models
The new GLC EV – effectively a successor to the EQE SUV – will introduce a bold, upright illuminated grille that looks starkly different to the minimalist and smooth fascias seen on the current crop of Mercedes-Benz EQ models. Inspired by the radiator design of the 1902 Mercedes Simplex and later classics like the 600 Pullman and W 108, the GLC EV’s new grille features a thick chrome surround and a matrix of 942 backlit LED pixels, capable of displaying animated graphics.
At the centre of the grille sits a large illuminated Mercedes-Benz tri-star logo, though how much of the emblem lights up will depend on market-specific regulations. In Europe, for instance, only the star can be illuminated, not the surrounding ring. Buyers can choose between two finishes: Silver Shadow or Dark Chrome Optic. A non-illuminated version with smoky white plastic squares will also be available for those who prefer a more subtle look.
While Mercedes-Benz didn’t show off anything else pertaining to the new GLC EV’s exterior, the teaser image of the grille partially shows off sleek, angled LED headlights that appear to have a smoked effect, along with some dark grey trim surrounding the air intakes on the bumper.
GLC EV to get new Hyperscreen setup
Inside, the GLC EV will come equipped with a new iteration of Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX Hyperscreen – a wide curved display that seamlessly integrates the instrument cluster, infotainment, and HVAC controls.
The MBUX Hyperscreen is currently available in the EQS and EQE, but since the GLC EV will get an updated version, expect crisper visuals, smoother animations and greater responsiveness.
Mercedes-Benz to ditch standalone EQ branding
Future Mercedes EVs to be named in accordance with ICE counterparts
The GLC EV will also be the first step in Mercedes-Benz’s pivot from standalone EQ nameplates. Instead, the carmaker will integrate EVs directly into its core line-up with ancillary EQ branding, as hinted by the G 580 with EQ Technology.
This homogenisation will go both ways, with ICE-powered Mercedes-Benz models being updated to reflect the new EV design cues, ensuring visual consistency across the portfolio.
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