Following the Mercedes-Benz S500e’s launch in South Africa not too long ago, the C350e will be the next plug-in hybrid sedan sold on our shores by the Stuttgart-based automaker.
Interestingly, the Mercedes-Benz C350e will be manufactured right here, in South Africa.
The hybrid system in the C-Class includes a turbocharged 2,0-litre four-cylinder engine delivering 155 kW and 350 N.m of torque to the rear wheels. An electric motor will add 60 kW and 340 N.m, giving the C350e a total system power output of 205 kW and 600 N.m of torque.
As a result, the C350e will accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 5,9 seconds, before it reaches its top speed of 250 km/h. In terms of battery operation, this C-Class makes use of 6,2 kWh pack which takes between 1h45min (fast-charge) and 3h30min (230 V) to fully charge. It’s good for an all-electric range of 31 km, according to Mercedes. The claimed fuel consumption when the hybrid mode is in effect is 2,1 L/100 km, with CO2 emissions of 65 g/km.
A haptic accelerator pedal will be installed in the C350e. This offers the driver a point of resistance when utilising the car in its electric mode. In effect, it provides the driver with a reference point for the electric motor. When pushed past this point, the combustion engine will kick in, bringing the hybrid system back online.
The plug-in hybrid will be manufactured in East London for both local and international markets by a technicians who have been specially trained to work with high-voltage components.
The C350e will be available locally from August at a starting price of R804 900. This includes a six-year/100 000 km maintenance plan and an exemption from the CO2 emissions tax.
