Mercedes-Benz shows bold grille design for new GLC EV

A fresh grille design that adopts classic styling cues with modern lighting elements will debut on the new GLC EV. It will feature on all future electric models.

Mercedes-Benz will introduce a bold new chrome grille design for its next-generation EVs. The first to show it off will be the GLC SUV, due to disrobe at the upcoming Munich motor show.

The teaser shot of the new front-end design reveals plenty. It is a reinvention of the classic radiator grille design and part of nearly every combustion-engined Mercedes model.

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The new electric GLC succeeds the EQC essentially, and will sell alongside the combustion-engined version. It is the first of a new electric product offensive by Mercedes-Benz as it abandons special model names for its EVs.

The grille design dates back to 1900 and the Mercedes 35 PS. It arrived with an upright honeycomb grille to maximise cooling. The central kink on the angled grille is still evident in current models. But wind tunnel testing has resulted in grilles that are now lower and wider.

Because they developed the grille originally for cooling and EVs don’t need that, the first generation of electric Mercedes featured a different front-end design. But the next-generation electric models will introduce a more traditional grille that’s taller and more upright.

Mercedes-Benz boss Ola Källenius said the original grille was a case of form following function. He said the new design would ensure Mercedes could maintain its identity with so many other brands entering the market. It would represent “the calling card of Mercedes, the unmistakeable Mercedes-ness” into the future.

The new grille is now essentially an illuminated panel. The version for the upcoming GLC EV will feature a chrome front perforated with 942 small holes. Behind the panel are more than 100 LEDs, which enable the grille to light up in a variety of customisable ways. The central star logo is also illuminated, depending somewhat on local market regulations.

This illuminated grille will feature on all next-gen Mercedes models, although the design will vary slightly between them. Mercedes is also set to update its combustion models in the coming years. Given it has previously said its design language will ‘merge’, it is likely the ICE radiator grille designs will change to match the new shape.