Electric Evolution: New-Gen Mercedes GLB EV Confirmed for India

Mercedes-Benz India has officially confirmed the arrival of its next-generation electric SUV, signaling a strategic expansion of its premium EV portfolio.

MUMBAI — Mercedes-Benz India has officially announced that the new-generation GLB electric SUV will be launched in the Indian market. The confirmation came during the company’s recent half-yearly sales call, led by Santosh Iyer, Managing Director and CEO of Mercedes-Benz India. While a specific launch date remains undisclosed, the move underscores the luxury automaker’s commitment to capturing a larger share of the burgeoning Indian electric vehicle (EV) segment.

The upcoming GLB EV, which serves as the technological successor to the outgoing EQB, will be introduced in India as a Completely Built Unit (CBU). This launch is part of a broader push by Mercedes-Benz to transition its EV lineup to a more cohesive design language that aligns with its traditional, combustion-powered models, moving away from the distinct "EQ" aesthetic that characterized its earlier electric entries.

Engineering and Performance

Built on the advanced Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA)—the same platform underpinning the successful new CLA EV—the new GLB EV promises significant improvements in cabin space, technology, and efficiency.

Globally, the SUV is offered in two distinct drivetrain configurations, both housing an 85 kWh battery pack:

• GLB 250+: Features a single-motor, rear-wheel-drive setup producing 268 bhp and 335 Nm of torque.

• GLB 350 4MATIC: Utilizes a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive configuration delivering 349 bhp and 515 Nm of torque.

The vehicle is engineered for long-distance travel, offering a WLTP-claimed range of up to 631 km on a single charge. Furthermore, the 800-volt architecture supports ultra-fast DC charging of up to 320 kW, enabling the battery to recover 260 km of range in approximately 10 minutes under optimal conditions.

Interior Tech and Cabin Experience

The interior of the new GLB EV is designed to mirror the brand's flagship luxury standards. It features the MBUX Superscreen, a seamless, edge-to-edge glass panel housing three distinct displays: a 10.25-inch digital driver instrument cluster, a 14-inch central infotainment touchscreen, and a dedicated third screen for the front-seat passenger.

The cabin is further enhanced by an advanced ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) suite, a panoramic glass roof with opacity control, ambient lighting, and a high-fidelity Burmester audio system supporting Dolby Atmos. Like its predecessor, the new SUV is expected to provide flexible seating configurations, including both five- and seven-seat layouts, maintaining its utility as a versatile family-oriented luxury vehicle.

Why It Matters

For Indian luxury car buyers, the entry of the new GLB EV is significant as it fills a crucial gap between the entry-level GLA and the flagship GLC/GLE models. By offering a long-range, tech-forward electric SUV that retains the familiar, boxy proportions of a traditional SUV, Mercedes-Benz is directly addressing consumer feedback that favored integrated design over the specialized, aerodynamic-focused look of previous EQ-branded models.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Platform: Developed on the new Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA).

• Battery & Range: 85 kWh battery offering a WLTP-claimed range of up to 631 km.

• Charging: Supports DC fast charging up to 320 kW (recovering 260 km in 10 minutes).

• Configurations: Available in both 5-seater and 7-seater layouts.

• Tech Suite: Features the MBUX Superscreen and advanced ADAS safety technology.

FAQ

When will the new GLB EV be available in India? While Mercedes-Benz India has officially confirmed the model for the market, they have not yet announced a specific launch date.

Will the GLB EV be locally manufactured? No, the vehicle is slated to be imported as a Completely Built Unit (CBU).

How does the GLB EV differ from the outgoing EQB? The new GLB EV is built on the next-gen MMA platform, offering significantly better range, a more modern interior with the MBUX Superscreen, and a design language that aligns closely with Mercedes-Benz's conventional luxury models.

Source: Mercedes-Benz India Official Communications, Autocar India, CarAndBike