Winter testing for upcoming Mercedes-Benz GLC generation

By CARSIFU | 30 March 2022


ARJEPLOG (Sweden): Mercedes-Benz is testing its next generation GLC sports utility vehicle at the icy conditions of Lapland.

The demanding test site in Arjeplog, Sweden, with snowy and icy roads, piercing winds and temperatures down to -30 Celcius, provides the perfect opportunity.

The winter testing is an essential and allows the German carmaker to check the effects of extreme cold on handling, ergonomics, thermal management and interior comfort, thus guaranteeing the results of the "digital development work" in actual driving operations.

A test centre set up specially for winter tests include hill climbs with gradients of up to 20%, test tracks with varying coefficients of friction, a handling course and skid pads on almost sheer ice.

If the GLC passes everything successfully, the start of the production tests is confirmed.

In a parallel process, cars produced locally in China are tested so that they, too, achieve the high Mercedes‑Benz quality standard.

From infotainment and a digitalised interior through to Airmatic and rear axle steering, the new GLC will get modern petrol and diesel engines that are 100% electrified.

As a plug-in hybrid, the new model will be able to cover well over 100km in pure electric mode and even travel off-road without CO2 emissions.

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