Khaberni - Mercedes launched the first fully electric version of its GLC vehicle in the United States, with a "vegan" interior design option, marking a global first in the automotive industry.
The Vegan Society, after a comprehensive audit of Mercedes' supply chain over more than two years, confirmed that the materials used in the "vegan interior design package" are free of animal sources and were not tested on animals.
The GLC has been the most popular Mercedes-Benz vehicle in the United States for decades. As traditional car companies transition to electric vehicles, relaunching popular models as electric versions has become a way to ease loyal customers into the electric future.
Interior Design Sustainability
Mercedes-Benz's step with a vegan interior design reflects its commitment to sustainability, moving away from traditional leather products in the luxurious interior cabin. From the seats and gear shift handles to the steering wheels and door panels, leather usually offers a sense of luxury, but the company has demonstrated that the same luxury can be achieved using sustainable vegan materials.
Over the past two years, in collaboration with the Vegan Society, Mercedes-Benz tested more than 100 components from various suppliers, including vegan leather, textiles, carpets, and ceiling linings. When any animal elements were discovered, they were replaced with alternatives free from animal products, while also evaluating and minimizing contamination risks. It was also emphasized that a "high percentage of recycled materials" were used in the interior design.
Electric Vehicle Specifications
The electric GLC offers remarkable performance with an engine power of 483 horsepower, and a top speed electronically limited to 210 kilometers per hour. The battery, with a capacity of 94 kilowatt-hours, provides an estimated driving range of up to 713 kilometers, with support for fast charging at 330 kilowatts DC, which can add about 300 kilometers in approximately 10 minutes.
The vehicle operates on the MB.OS platform powered by artificial intelligence and includes the fourth-generation MBUX infotainment system, equipped with AI technologies from Microsoft and Google, making it the first automotive system in the world with dual integration.
The fully electric GLC will be showcased for the first time in the United States at CES 2026, and is expected to go on sale in the second quarter of the same year. Customers will be able to choose the vegan interior design using the configuration tool available on the website.
