Mercedes-Benz A- and B-Class plug-in hybrids for the first time

Mercedes-Benz A- and B-Class plug-in hybrids are available for the first time, bearing the EQ Power label. They will bear the names of A 250 e and B 250 e, with prices starting at 36,943.55 and 37,300.55 euros respectively.

Following several spy photo sessions with the new low-emissions variants, they are now available for order. The system is connected to an 8F-DCT dual clutch transmission. It integrates a 1.33-liter 4-cylinder engine of 218 horsepower and a torque of 450 Nm. For the first time for a Mercedes-Benz model, the combustion engine is started by the electric motor. The compact hybrids feature no separate 12-volt starter.

The EQ Power function makes the A 250 e and the B 250 e instantly react when the accelerator is pressed. The Saloon with the plug-in hybrid system needs 6.6 seconds to hit 100 km/h from a standstill. It reaches a top speed of 235 km/h and 140 km/h in the electric mode.

A lithium-ion battery with a total capacity of approximately 15.6 kWh stores the energy for an electric range of 70-75 kilometers. The cars can be charged using alternating or direct current sources. A socket in the right-hand side wall allows charging at a 7.4 kW Wallbox with alternating current within 1 hour and 45 minutes from 10 to 100% and in 25 minutes only from 10 to 80% for direct charging.

The high-voltage battery weighing approximately 150 kilograms is water-cooled and it does not compromise much on the boot volume.

The vehicles bearing the third-generation plug-in technology come with all the functions and benefits of the systems. A route-based operating strategy, that considers the data provided by the navigation, speed regulations and route, is included. The MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) and new drive programs such as “Electric” and “Battery Level” are also available, with the first providing maximum e-performance. The driver can choose one of the five different recuperation levels using the paddles on the steering wheel (D_AUTO, D₊, D, D_– and D_—). Comfort, ECO and Sport can also be selected.

An electric refrigerant compressor provides pre-entry climate control, that can also be activated by a smartphone app.

The new variants are set to hit the showroom this year. The new variants are part of the premium company’s strategy of launching more than ten plug-in hybrids, with the flagship Mercedes-Benz S-Class on the list for this year. 20 such model variants will be available in 2020.