New Electric AMG GLC
A few months after the presentation of the fully electric Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ technology for the European market, prototypes of the full-fledged AMG version, which is expected soon, began to appear.
Competition with Porsche Cayenne
This new AMG model is positioned as a competitor to the electric Porsche Cayenne and is reported to have power that was previously characteristic only of supercars.
Developed entirely by AMG engineers, the SUV will receive three axial Yasa motors. The British engineering company Yasa, now owned by Mercedes, already supplies these motors for the production version of the recently presented GT XX prototype. These compact yet extremely powerful motors are a key element of AMG’s strategy for the next generation of electric vehicles.
The German manufacturer aims for a peak power of over 900 horsepower, which will allow the AMG GLC to accelerate to 100 km/h in less than three seconds and have an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.
Technological Features
The AMG GLC’s distinctive feature lies not only in the axial motors. If the standard model uses prismatic cells, the AMG version will switch to cylindrical ones, which provide better power density and thermal characteristics.
Furthermore, the system is reported to include a new direct cooling setup to maintain optimal battery temperature during intensive use.
Charging Speed
The standard electric version of the GLC supports DC fast charging at up to 330 kW, allowing for 300 km of range to be replenished in just 10 minutes. While this is one of the best figures in the industry, the AMG variant is reported to support charging speeds of up to 400 kW.
Additional Driver Features
The updates are not limited to power and charging. AMG engineers want the electric GLC to live up to its badge, so the SUV will feature a simulated multi-speed transmission, which should add a sense of mechanical interaction. This is similar to the concept implemented by Hyundai in their Ioniq 5 N and Ioniq 6 N sport electric vehicles.
Additionally, the new model will include a speaker system that reproduces the roar of an internal combustion engine, similar to the system used in the AMG GT XX.
Testing and Market Launch
Earlier this month, spy photos captured the AMG GLC testing for the first time. The prototype had new forged wheels installed within widened wheel arches and a prominent rear spoiler, indicating the aggressive stance of the production car. If all goes according to plan, it should appear on the market next year.
The shift towards high-performance electric SUVs demonstrates how traditional manufacturers are adapting to new technologies while retaining their characteristic features. The use of advanced solutions such as axial motors and cylindrical batteries indicates Mercedes-AMG’s aspiration to remain a leader in the premium electric vehicle segment, combining high performance with innovative technologies.