New Mercedes GLC 350e PHEV Coming To US With 81-Mile Electric Range

With electric vehicle sales sputtering, a number of automakers are rethinking hybrids. Mercedes is among them and the luxury brand has announced plans to offer a GLC 350e 4MATIC in the United States.Set to arrive in the second half of the year, the crossover has a plug-in hybrid powertrain that consists of a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, a 24.8 kWh battery pack, and an electric motor. This setup gives the model a combined output of 313 hp (233 kW / 317 PS) and 406 lb-ft (550 Nm) of torque.That’s significantly more than the GLC 300 4MATIC and it enables the crossover to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in approximately 6.6 seconds.

Given enough room, the hybrid model will eventually hit an electronically limited top speed of 135 mph (217 km/h).More: Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 And 63 Coupe Say Goodbye To V6 And V8, Hello To Inline FoursMercedes didn’t provide EPA estimates, but noted the European model has a WLTP electric-only range of up to 81 miles (130 km). Americans can expect the final number to be far less impressive, but the company said many trips can be completed without using the internal combustion engine.When the battery is low, a 60 kW DC fast charger can fully replenish it in around 30 minutes. At home, you’re looking at an AC charging rate of up to 11 kW.Pricing will be announced closer to launch, but the plug-in hybrid will be offered in three different trims.

The entry-level model is slated to have LED lighting units, rain-sensing wipers, and a self-leveling suspension. Other highlights include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, an 11.9-inch infotainment system, and a wireless smartphone charger. Buyers will also find digital key technology, a 64-color ambient lighting system, and 16-way power front seats with heating.The Exclusive trim ups the ante with illuminated door sill plates, enhanced ambient lighting, and a Burmester premium audio system.