Quick Reads
- Mercedes-Benz India MD and CEO, Santosh Iyer, confirmed the upcoming launch of the GLB EV
- Will arrive via the CBU (Completely Built Unit) route in India
- The global-spec GLB EV gets an 85 kWh battery, with a WLTP-claimed range of up to 631 km
- The cabin features the massive MBUX Superscreen powered by MB.OS, AI integration, and the flexibility of five- and seven-seat configurations.
Mercedes-Benz is preparing to expand its electric vehicle lineup in India with the new-generation GLB EV. During a recent half-yearly sales call, Santosh Iyer, Managing Director and CEO of Mercedes-Benz India, officially confirmed that the electric luxury SUV will make its way to our shores. The new GLB EV sits on the advanced Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA) and effectively serves as the technological successor to the current EQB.
Expected to arrive as a full CBU (Completely Built Unit) import, the electric SUV will likely command an ex-showroom price of around Rs 80 lakh, and will stand out as one of the few luxury electric SUVs in the country to offer the flexibility of a third row of seats.
Platform and Powertrain Options
The new GLB EV is built from the ground up on the 800V MMA platform, which brings major improvements in electrical efficiency and hardware packaging. Globally, the SUV is available in two variants: the GLB 250+ and the GLB 350 4MATIC.
The entry-point GLB 250+ uses a single, rear-mounted electric motor that generates roughly 197 kW (268 hp) and 335 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the dual-motor GLB 350 4MATIC pushes out 256 kW (348 hp) and 515 Nm of torque.
Both versions draw power from the same 85 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The single-motor variant is the efficiency champion here, with a WLTP-certified range of up to 631 km on a full charge. Meanwhile, the all-wheel-drive 4MATIC version has a claimed range of up to 614 km.
Ultra-Fast Charging Capabilities
One of the most notable advantages of the new 800-volt architecture is its charging speed. The GLB EV supports DC fast charging up to a massive 320 kW. Under optimal conditions, Mercedes claims this system can add roughly 260 km of driving range in just 10 minutes, making highway road trips significantly more convenient.
Design and Interior Technology
The front end features a sealed-off grille embedded with illuminated star motifs, framed by connected LED headlamps. Flush-fitting door handles and a new inverted U-shaped connected LED lighting signature at the rear complete the modern exterior update.
Inside, the dashboard is dominated by the MBUX Superscreen setup. This edge-to-edge glass panel houses a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display, a 14-inch central touchscreen, and an additional 14-inch display dedicated to the front passenger. The entire system runs on the new MB.OS (Mercedes-Benz Operating System) and includes built-in Google Maps and AI assistants powered by ChatGPT.
The GLB EV will be offered in both five- and seven-seat layouts. Other notable features include a Burmester audio system with Dolby Atmos, multi-mood ambient lighting, an opaque-to-clear panoramic glass roof, and a comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).
