The all-new electric Mercedes-Benz GLB has been launched in Singapore, with hybrid versions set to follow later this year.
One of Singapore’s best-selling Mercedes-Benz models, the GLB compact seven-seater SUV, has gone all electric, and the all-new GLB has been officially launched here following an event held at the Mercedes-Benz Center on 23 June.
The electric GLB effectively takes the place of the previous EQB model, as part of Mercedes-Benz’s consolidation of its lineup that will see it eventually phase out its EQ branding for its electrified cars.
Future electric Mercedes-Benz models will follow the naming convention of the brand’s regular lineup, a move which started with the new CLA launched earlier this year.
Two versions of the new electric GLB were unveiled, with the entry-level model being the GLB 200 Electric Progressive, and the top-spec model being the GLB 250+ Electric AMG Line Sport.
The introduction of the GLB 200 is significant because it marks the first time that Mercedes-Benz is offering a compact electric SUV that’s eligible for a Cat A COE.
The GLB 200 Electric thus has a power output of 110kW/147bhp, allowing it to just about qualify for Cat A. The more powerful GLB 250+ Electric meanwhile has an output of 200kW/268bhp, and both cars produce the same torque figure of 335Nm.
The less powerful GLB 200 Electric comes with a 58kWh battery that can take on a maximum charging speed of 200kW, and gives the car a claimed range of 453km on a full charge. The GLB 250+ Electric though is equipped with a bigger 85kWh battery with a maximum charging speed of 320kW, and a claimed driving range of an impressive 674km.
For customers who are not quite ready to jump into full EV motoring, Mercedes-Benz also confirmed at the event that it will be introducing hybrid versions of the GLB later this year, with the GLB 180 and GLB 200 hybrid models set for a late 2026 launch.
The GLB 180 will also qualify for a Cat A COE, giving consumers yet another option in this highly competitive segment.
In terms of size, the new GLB Electric has grown in almost all dimensions over its predecessors. The new car is some 48mm and 98mm longer than the previous EQB and GLB respectively. Width has also gone up by 27mm over both models, while wheelbase has increased by 60mm.
The result is more interior room for occupants, with Mercedes-Benz claiming that passengers in the second row can enjoy 29mm more legroom and 54mm more headroom over the previous EQB, while those in the third row also have 10mm more headroom.
Boot capacity has been increased as well, with the new GLB Electric boasting 480 litres of boot space when the third row of seats are folded, up by 15 litres over the EQB. There is also a frunk with a capacity of 127 litres, for a total of 597 litres of carrying capacity front and rear.
The styling of the new GLB Electric follows closely the design language of the new CLA, with the distinctive lighting strip connecting the headlights complementing the large Mercedes-Benz ‘grille’ that’s illuminated by 94 chrome look stars surrounding the large Mercedes-Benz logo in the centre.
Other design details such as the flush door handles, wheel arch claddings and visible underbody protection gives off a sleek yet rugged vibe. At the back, the LED taillights feature a distinctive star design pattern that gives the GLB Electric a clear visual identity.
Among the unique feature highlights on the new GLB Electric is the panoramic sunroof that will be standard on both variants. Later this year, Mercedes-Benz will also offer the option of the Sky Control roof, which can be transformed from transparent to opaque in segments, as well as display a starry-sky effect pattern, a la Rolls-Royce.
Pricing for the new Mercedes-Benz GLB 200 Electric Progressive starts at $280,888 with a Cat A COE, while the Cat B Mercedes-Benz GLB 250+ Electric AMG Line Sport is priced at $310,888 with COE.
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