Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius previews upcoming electric GLC with 5 challenges


Ahead of its unveiling at the 2025 Munich IAA motor show on 7 September 2025, Mercedes-Benz CEO, Ola Källenius has taken a prototype of the upcoming fully electric Mercedes-Benz GLC400 4matic with EQ technology (yes, that’s its full name) for a spin, and brought us all along for a ride.

In a new video filmed at the brand’s test facility in Immendingen, Germany, the drive comes with a twist: Källenius was tasked to complete five different challenges. For those who follow us on YouTube, this challenge-based format gives us a sense of déjà vu.

The first challenge was a 0-100 km/h acceleration test. While the company did not reveal an official time it took the electric GLC to complete the century sprint, the CEO stated that the instantaneous torque makes the acceleration of the electric GLC feel like driving a Mercedes-AMG GT.

Next was a slalom test designed to demonstrate the SUV’s agility. This highlighted two key features taken from the S-Class: the Airmatic air suspension and a rear-axle steering system that allows the rear wheels to turn up to 4.5-degrees in either direction.

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The third challenge showcased the vehicle’s practicality. The electric GLC has a 570 litre boot space that expands to 1,740 litres with the rear seats folded. The SUV also features a frunk, which offers an additional 128 litres of cargo space and is accessible via a touch control.

Afterwards, the video demonstrated the charging capabilities of the upcoming electric GLC. Built on an 800V architecture, the SUV supports 320 kW DC fast charging, which enables the car to regain 260 km of range with just 10 minutes of charging.

Finally, for those who need a more utilitarian use for their GLC, the electric SUV can tow up to 2.4 tons. As demonstrated in the video, Mercedes-Benz says this is ideal for large caravans, boat trailers, or even ferrying a classic car.

Other teasers for the upcoming electric GLC include a new design language inspired by “prestige and status”—a philosophy that seems fitting for a Mercedes-Benz. This design will introduce a new face for the brand as the first in a family of upcoming vehicles. The interior will also feature the next-generation floating MBUX Hyperscreen powered by the new MB.OS.

All said, these snippets of the Mercedes-Benz GLC400 4Matic with EQ technology certainly make us curious about the full capabilities of the SUV. For now, a short wait is in order until its full reveal at the Munich IAA motor show on 7 September 2025.

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