Mercedes-Benz has officially launched the all-new electric CLA and GLC in South Korea, introducing its next-generation electrification architecture and proprietary operating system. Aiming to recapture leadership in the local premium EV market, the dual release pairs an accessible KRW50 million-range sedan with the brand's signature best-selling midsize SUV.
Mercedes-Benz Korea unveiled the detailed specifications and electrification strategy for both models at Mercedes-Benz Studio Seoul. These models serve as core flagships, marking the first production vehicles to adopt Mercedes' next-generation MMA modular architecture (for the CLA) and the MB.EA dedicated midsize platform (for the GLC). They also accelerate the brand's transition toward Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs) by introducing the proprietary MB.OS—which centrally controls hardware and software—alongside the fourth-generation MBUX system.
Tailored specifically for local customers, the vehicles come equipped with TMAP Auto navigation as standard and support an AI-powered virtual assistant. Backed by an 800V high-voltage electrical system, rapid charging from 10% to 80% takes only about 20 to 22 minutes depending on the model.
The entry-level CLA Electric is offered in five trims, ranging from KRW52,900,000 to KRW67,700,000. Notably, the CLA 200 Essential (featuring a 58kWh LFP battery with a combined range of 342 km) is priced below the threshold for full EV subsidy reductions, enabling purchases in the KRW40 million range depending on local government subsidies. Meanwhile, the CLA 250+, equipped with an 85kWh NCM battery, delivers a driving range of 474 km on a single charge.
The midsize GLC Electric (85kWh NCM battery, 448 km combined range) will initially launch with two Launch Edition variants featuring AIRMATIC suspension. All battery cells are supplied by CATL, with pricing set between KRW90,000,000 and KRW94,800,000. Significantly, the GLC comes pre-equipped with Level 2++ (“MB.DRIVE Assist Pro”) autonomous driving hardware powered by high-precision sensors, including ten external cameras. Mercedes plans to introduce advanced autonomous features, such as highway hands-off driving, via software updates by 2027, aligned with local regulatory frameworks and technical verifications.
Pre-orders for the two models have received a strong early response, surpassing approximately 1,000 units for the CLA and 2,500 units for the GLC. The rollout of these new vehicles is expected to be a critical turning point for expanding Mercedes' electrification business in South Korea. Seeking a rebound momentum in the EV sector, Mercedes plans to capture market demand through a two-track strategy encompassing a popular entry-level sedan and a proven volume-selling SUV.
“These two models mark a crucial turning point in Mercedes' electrification journey, going beyond a simple lineup expansion to raise the benchmark for premium electric mobility,” said Shirine Emir, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Korea. “We will deliver a differentiated electric vehicle experience to our local customers.”
Vehicle deliveries will begin in mid-November, and customers who purchase the vehicles will receive a complimentary one-year EV charging subscription.
