Mercedes-Benz unveils a long-wheelbase version of the new electric GLC for the Chinese market in Beijing

Mercedes-Benz has just unveiled the new GLC L at the Beijing Motor Show, a long-wheelbase variant of the electric SUV we already know, exclusively aimed at the Chinese market. This strategy of offering models with an extended wheelbase for this market is common among Western manufacturers, in order to attract Chinese customers, who place great importance on the space available in the rear seats.

At 4.95 metres long, the GLC L is 10.4 centimetres longer than the standard version. Its wheelbase also grows by 55 millimetres to reach 3.03 metres, while the width of 1.97 metres and the height of 1.71 metres remain unchanged.

It is worth pointing out that, unlike other proposals such as the Audi Q6L e-tron, which takes advantage of the increased wheelbase to fit a higher-capacity battery pack, Mercedes-Benz has opted for a different solution. The GLC L uses an 89 kWh battery pack, compared with the 94 kWh of the international model, which is nonetheless sufficient to homologate more than 700 km of range under the Chinese CLTC homologation cycle.

A vehicle for covering many kilometres without worries

During the presentation, Mercedes-Benz highlighted the outstanding charging performance of the new GLC L. According to the German manufacturer, thanks to its 800-volt architecture, this electric SUV is capable of recovering enough energy to cover about 260 km CLTC in just 10 minutes.

As for the powertrain, power stands at 310 kW, slightly below the 330 kW of the GLC 400 4MATIC EQ. However, it retains the advanced eATS 2.0 system on the rear axle with a two-speed transmission developed in Germany, which suggests that the hardware is practically identical to that of the European model.

With this launch, Mercedes-Benz also introduces its new design language to China, characterised by the large front grille illuminated by more than 900 LEDs, which pays tribute to the brand’s classic models. At the rear, illuminated elements with the Mercedes-Benz star reinforce its identity. The interior, meanwhile, keeps the brand’s current philosophy, with a large continuous screen extending across the dashboard.

It lacks nothing

With the GLC L, Mercedes-Benz will seek to win over Chinese customers by offering a high level of standard comfort, which includes air suspension, heated and ventilated front and rear seats with massage function, a Burmester sound system and a practical 128-litre front boot under the bonnet. It also incorporates advanced driver assistance systems and an autonomous parking assistant.