Mercedes-Benz previews new chrome grille design for GLC EV

Mercedes-Benz has replaced its iconic chrome grille with a “wide chromed frame” on its future electric vehicles, starting with the GLC EV.

Mercedes-Benz has reinvented its iconic chrome grille design for its next-generation electric vehicles.

For more than 100 years, the German car manufacturer’s chrome grille has been an iconic feature of almost every Mercedes-Benz cars.

But now, the brand has announced a bold panel will appear on the new GLC EV – which will be unveiled at the Munich motor show on September 7.

The new grille will feature a “wide chromed frame, a smoked-glass-effect lattice structure and integrated contour lighting”.

Meanwhile, an illuminated option is perforated with 942 dots, which are backlit thanks to the over 100 LED lights from behind the panel.

These enable the grille to “light up in a variety of customisable ways”.

The central star logo will also shine bright – but its brightness will be “dependent on local regulations”.

Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer, Mercedes‑Benz Group AG, said on the car brand’s website: “Our new iconic grille is not just a new front for the GLC, it redefines the face of our brand.

“It is the perfect fusion of lasting design codes reinterpreted for the future, making our cars instantly recognisable.”

A spokesperson for Mercedes-Benz added of the new grille design: “This striking centrepiece preserves the essence of Mercedes‑Benz while embracing a more modern touch through reduction, clean lines and cutting-edge technology.”