ON THE ROAD – IAN LYNAS WITH NEWS OF THE NEW MERCEDES GLC
The new GLC from Mercedes is arriving soon; in recent years it has become the top seller for the giant German automotive company and the new model goes electric first and expect to see it early next year.
Customer feedback from around the world has played a part in bringing this new model to market. With EQ technology, intelligence powered by the new AI driven MB.OS super brain and overall such highlights as performance, fast charging and range, will certainly give this newcomer added appeal. There is no doubt I have observed over the past year a substantial increase in range with EVs, this to most drivers is the most important issue when considering moving to electric power. Many have gone half way if you like in favouring a hybrid over an all-electric vehicle. The eagerly awaited new GLC will surely help in the move to electric power; of course a case of wait and see.
The word from Mercedes is the promise of an integrated seamless charging function for charging stations. A first from this manufacturer and most drivers I have asked about charging; many have revealed their frustration and there have been occasions when I have agreed with them; anything that makes charging a vehicle easier is most welcome. A diverse portfolio of drive systems will be on offer; the aim is that this newcomer will define the future of electric driving and it will deliver new levels of comfort.
At the launch, the range topper the GLC 400 4MATIC with 360kW and up to range of 713km (444m); the latter for many will be the best possible news. Clearly technology is going to be at the heart of the new GLC: There is a new seamless MBUX hyper screen, in fact the largest fitted to any Mercedes to date. The focus will be on a new standard of interior equipment with an optional Vegan package; this suite of interior materials is certified by the Vegan Society; again another first from Mercedes. A major target is bringing the new GLC to market has been delivering an all-round vehicle one with comfort and space. I did note that the electric version has a slightly longer wheelbase, added comfort and a better ride. People buy SUVs for a variety of reasons, I suspect mainly for ease of transport of people and their trappings. The boot has 570 litres and with the rear seats folded, a massive 1,740 litres. In addition the front trunk or frunk has an extra 128 litres of load capacity and can be opened partially electrically via touch control. Clearly the new GLC has been designed to cater for a wide variety of needs. Towing capacity is up to 2.4 tonnes, ideal for sports, holidays etc. and the drawbar load of 100kg allows for the use of a bicycle carrier. There is also Manoeuvring Assist for safer handling.
Terrain mode is also part of the package, this is a driving programme for off road adventures, this system adjusts the characteristics of the drive, steering and brakes and I wonder just how many will dare to venture off the tarmac with their new GLC. The transparent bonnet function enables a virtual view under the front of this SUV by combining images from the front camera and the exterior mirror cameras. There is a lot more to report on; but for now a taste of an exceptional new vehicle. Ian Lynas.
