With the launch of a B-Class hydrogen-driven car already penned for 2014, we’re surprised to learn this morning that Mercedes will also be presenting a battery electric version of the popular compact MPV at the Paris Motor Show this month.
This new electric model will be the first from Mercedes to use the name ‘Electric Drive’ which the carmaker now reveals will appear on the boot lids of all its battery-powered electric cars as it will for its sister-brand, smart.
The new B-Class EV concept uses a 100kW engine, just like its fuel cell brother, which delivers powerful performance including 310 Nm of torque. A lithium ion battery pack will provide a range of around 200 kilometres (124 miles) and can be recharged via any standard 230 V power outlet or recharged via a 400 V high voltage quick charger.
Planned for series production in 2014, the new model will be the first car ever to be produced as a combustion, natural gas, hydrogen fuel cell and battery-electric car. Thanks to something called the Energy Space, Mercedes says its family car model is ideally suited to adapting to these different drivetrains without compromising on passenger space.
At the Paris show Mercedes will also make the world premieres of the production versions of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive and the smart BRABUS electric drive.
Parent firm Daimler says this shows the commitment of its smart and Mercedes brands to electric and fuel cell cars as well as its a commitment to emission reduction already being demonstrated by fuel efficient engines and hybrid models.
Faye has been writing about cars and environmental issues since 2007. A suspected eco-warrior working on the corporate inside, Faye mainly likes the weird, quirky vehicles that show a distinct environmental advantage. Her ideal car has enough room to fit a bale of hay in the boot. When not working, she likes nothing better than to head out on her bicycle and explore the countryside.
Faye Sunderland
September 18, 2012
Filed under: Mercedes
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