Like most other automakers, Mercedes-Benz is also on the mission to electrify its lineup of vehicles in the near future. Now it is adding two plug-in hybrid powertrains to its compact models.
On Monday, the German-based automaker revealed plug-in hybrid versions of its smallest, most affordable models – the A-Class and B-Class – for European markets. The 250e suffix denotes these compact Mercedes models with plug-in hybrid power.
The A250e and B250e both rely on a 1.3-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and a 75kW motor. Together they add up to a system output of 160 kW (218 hp) and a system torque of 450 Nm to the front wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
A 15.6 kWh lithium-ion high-voltage battery is used as electric energy storage which can be charged by plugging it into a DC fast charger, 80% charge comes in around 25 minutes. Whereas a full recharge will take one hour and 45 minutes using a 7.4-kilowatt Level 2 AC charging station.
Mercedes-Benz said the hybrids would go a healthy 40 miles of all-electric driving based on the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) testing cycle. When the two-part of powertrain work simultaneously, the A250e requires 6.6 seconds for the sprint (6.8 for the B-Class) from 0-62 mph, and its top speed is 146 mph. The top speed in electric mode is limited to 87 mph.
Interior will be familiar, and both the models use Mercedes’ MBUX interface, complete with “Hey Mercedes” voice commands when enabled. To make room for the battery pack, the exhaust exits from under the floor at the center of the car, rather than going all the way to the back. Also, the fuel tank is positioned between the rear wheels to free up more space.
Both A-Class and B-Class plug-in hybrid models are available in Europe now. The A250e will cost under €36,944 tax included for a hatchback version and €37,301 for the sedan, or about $40,980 and $41,376 respectively. On the other hand, the sale of the B250e starts a few weeks later; its price is not yet specified.
The brand is not currently planning on selling the A250e and the B250e in the United States since the models they’re based on aren’t available there. Get more detailed information on the company’s website.
