Mercedes GLC EV and New VLE/VLS on India Radar
Mercedes-Benz has confirmed an aggressive product strategy for the Indian market, with a strong focus on luxury electric mobility and premium people movers. As part of its 12-product offensive planned for 2026, the brand has hinted that the GLC EV and the next-generation VLE and VLS could be future India-bound models.
Mercedes-Benz India Product Roadmap
The 2026 rollout will begin with special editions such as the EQS Maybach Celebration Edition and GLS Maybach Celebration Edition, followed by the all-electric CLA BEV. Beyond these confirmed launches, Mercedes-Benz has signaled interest in introducing a mix of sedans, SUVs, AMG performance models, and battery-electric vehicles tailored for Indian buyers.
Mercedes GLC EV: One Name, Multiple Powertrains
Unveiled globally in 2025, the Mercedes GLC EV is the all-electric counterpart of the highly successful GLC SUV. Visually, it stays close to the ICE GLC’s design while integrating EV-specific styling elements and a dedicated electric platform.
Positioned above the EQA in Mercedes’ electric lineup, the GLC EV is expected to appeal to buyers upgrading from entry-level luxury EVs. Given the popularity of the ICE GLC in India, the electric version could become a strong entry point into Mercedes’ premium EV ecosystem.
Expected India Price: ₹85 lakh – ₹95 lakh (ex-showroom)
VLE & VLS: Luxury MPVs with Star Power
Mercedes-Benz will unveil the production-ready VLE on 10 March. Based on the next-generation V-Class concept, the VLE (electric) and its ICE sibling, the VLS, will redefine luxury people movers.
Both models are expected to offer seating for up to eight occupants, focusing on comfort, space, and chauffeur-driven luxury. The VLE is claimed to deliver a range of up to 1,100 km, making it one of the longest-range electric MPVs globally.
The VLS branding reflects Mercedes’ strategy of extending the ‘S-Class level luxury’ philosophy to a wider range of vehicles, particularly for high-profile buyers such as celebrities, business leaders, and political figures.
Expected India Price:
- Mercedes VLE (EV): ₹1.30 crore – ₹1.50 crore (ex-showroom)
- Mercedes VLS (ICE): ₹1.10 crore – ₹1.30 crore (ex-showroom)
No Maybach Badge for Lower Models
Mercedes-Benz has clarified that while the VLE and VLS will sit at the top end of the luxury MPV space, the Maybach badge will remain exclusive to full-fledged Maybach models only.
Although AMG Line trims will continue to be offered across multiple vehicles, the Maybach name will not be extended to lower segments, preserving its exclusivity at the very top of the brand’s portfolio.
India Launch Timeline
Both the GLC EV and the VLE/VLS are still awaiting left-hand-drive production readiness. If approved for India, these models are expected to arrive around 2027.
With rising demand for luxury EVs and ultra-premium people movers, Mercedes-Benz appears well-positioned to strengthen its dominance in India’s high-end automotive segment.
