Mercedes expands GLC electric lineup with cheaper versions

Mercedes expands GLC electric lineup with cheaper versions

Mercedes introduced the GLC 400 4MATIC with EQ technology last fall, and is now expanding the model range with two more affordable variants in Europe. The cheapest starts at €64,736 ($74,765) in Germany, which is €6,545 ($7,558) less than the top version.

This is significant savings, but there are plenty of compromises. The biggest is that the entry-level GLC 250 Electric has a smaller 85 kWh battery pack and a single rear electric motor producing 349 hp (260 kW / 354 hp) and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque. This allows the crossover to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 5.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 130 mph (210 km/h).

Specifications and range of the new versions

Besides lower performance, the GLC 250 has a less impressive range—up to 404 miles (650 km). This is 40 miles (65 km) less than the GLC 400 4MATIC, and buyers also get slightly lower DC fast charging power at 320 kW. Nevertheless, this allows charging the battery from 10% to 80% in just 22 minutes.

The GLC 300 4MATIC Electric is similar but equipped with a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing 416 hp (310 kW / 421 hp) and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque. This reduces the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time to 4.7 seconds, while the top speed remains unchanged. Unfortunately, the WLTP range drops to 383 miles (616 km).

Prices and comparison with the top version

The price starts at €68,306 ($78,894), which is €2,975 ($3,436) less than the GLC 400. This model, as you may recall, has a larger 94 kWh battery and a more powerful dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing 483 hp (360 kW / 489 hp). This combination allows the crossover to reach 62 mph (100 km/h) in 4.3 seconds and travel up to 444 miles (715 km) between charges.

There is currently no information about availability in the US, but the UK will get the GLC 250 Electric. Its price starts at £55,495.

Thus, Mercedes is offering a wider choice of electric GLC crossovers, making them more accessible for different budgets, albeit with some compromises in power, range, and charging speed. This allows buyers to choose between savings and performance, depending on their needs.