Next-Gen Mercedes-Benz GLC EV Teases New Signature Grille And Lighting

Mercedes-Benz teased the upcoming next-gen GLC EV - officially called the GLC With EQ Technology - featuring a bold new front-end.

Earlier today, German premium automaker Mercedes-Benz teased its next generation and fully-electrified GLC – widely dubbed the ‘GLC EV’ – online. The sole teaser image released by the automaker shows a bold new front-end.

Closer inspection reveals a ‘reinvented’ signature front grille design that nearly every combustion-powered (ICE) model from the marque featured. Accompanying which too is a new forward lighting pattern.

The new GLC EV detailed, officially christened as the Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ Technology, succeeds the existing EQC model it will sit alongside the existing ICE-powered X254-gen SUV and its C254-gen coupe twin that we’re all familiar with.

The front-ends from the existing X254-gen GLC (top, left) and C254-gen GLC Coupe (top, right) versus the new design teased (above).

Traditionally, the grille was designed to meet cooling needs in ICE models, which EV models don’t require. First generation EVs from the marque featured a different design, but upcoming next-gen successors to which will introduce a more traditional look.

Featuring a taller and more upright format, it will also incorporate elements from Mercedes-Benz’ current grille design. Key to which include the distinct central kink, and it will be backlit using over 100 LEDs that can light the grille up in a variety of ways too.

Brand boss Ola Källenius says the grille was originally “not a design choice, but form follows function”. He adds the new design would ensure thre automaker could maintain its identity in current times, even against “100-plus Chinese firms” and others.

Mercedes-Benz didn’t go in the further details, but sources online report that the automaker will reveal the GLC EV in full next month during the IAA Mobility show in Munich set for Sept 7.

Both the existing GLC (left) and GLC Coupe (right) are set to be offered still alongside the new-gen EV model detailed. The latter debuts next month during IAA Munich.

That aside, it’s been established prior that the new GLC EV will underpin a new 800-volt architecture that can accommodate DC fast-charging up to 320 kW. In turn, this sees the EV SUV capable of recovering up to 260 KM in range with just 10 minutes of charging.

Besides that, the new GLC EV also boasts an 80 MM longer wheelbase (2,888 MM) that promises a larger cabin space too. Other key features set include an optional air suspension system lifted from the S-Class, as well as the MBUX Hyperscreen.

Expect more details once the new GLC EV detailed debuts fully next month. In the meantime, share your take of this new grille design in the comments below…