by Mercedes presents extended GLC EV for China
Mercedes-Benz, following the general trend of premium brands in the Chinese market, has introduced a long-wheelbase version of the new GLC EQ electric crossover. The premiere took place at the Beijing Auto Show, where the new model will compete with the recently unveiled BMW iX3 LWB. The electric vehicle features a six-seat cabin layout and borrows chassis technologies from the flagship S-Class sedan.
Dimensions and design
The total length of the car is now 4950 mm, with a wheelbase reaching 3027 mm. This makes it 105 mm longer than the standard global version, with 55 mm of this increase allocated to the space between the axles. The new GLC L EV also surpasses the EQE SUV in length by 87 mm and outpaces the competitor BMW iX3 LWB by 64 mm.
Visual changes are immediately noticeable: the rear doors have become longer, the side windows have expanded, and the rear end appears more vertical. Otherwise, the design remains faithful to the standard GLC EQ, retaining the signature star LED lighting and the illuminated radiator grille.
Interior and equipment
Inside, Mercedes has spared no expense on screens. The 39.1-inch MBUX Hyperscreen stretches across the entire dashboard, which is expected for this segment. However, the key change is at the rear. The GLC L EV can be ordered with three rows of seats and six seats, giving it a practical advantage over the BMW. Second-row passengers get individual captain’s chairs with heating, ventilation, and massage.
Specifications
Initially, the GLC L EV will be available with two electric motors developing 416 hp and 800 Nm of torque. This is slightly less than the global dual-motor version of the GLC EV (483 hp), but for everyday use, the difference is unlikely to be noticeable.
Interestingly, the Chinese version received a smaller battery with a capacity of 85.5 kWh instead of 94 kWh. Despite this, Mercedes claims a range of over 700 km under the CLTC cycle. The reduction in capacity is likely related to weight requirements, local component sourcing, and the need to accommodate a third row of seats on a platform initially designed for five seats.
Chassis from S-Class
The GLC L EV is built on an extended version of the MB.EA platform with 800-volt architecture, which is also used in the new electric C-Class. For China, the car has also borrowed technologies from the S-Class. When ordering the Agility & Comfort package, the buyer receives Airmatic air suspension and a rear-wheel steering system for enhanced comfort and maneuverability.
Sales of the GLC L EV in China are scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of this year. Prices will be announced closer to the launch.
This move by Mercedes is yet another confirmation of how the Chinese market shapes global automotive trends. Manufacturers are increasingly creating specialized versions of models tailored to local tastes and needs. The extended wheelbase and six-seat cabin are a direct response to the demand of Chinese buyers who value space and comfort for all passengers. The use of S-Class technologies, even optionally, demonstrates Mercedes’ desire to emphasize the model’s premium nature, despite the smaller battery and slightly more modest power compared to the global version. This indicates that for the Chinese market, the priority is not maximum dynamics, but comfort, space, and status.
