The Mercedes-Benz C-Class C350e PHEV will be launched in the near future. Mercedes-Benz Malaysia have begun taking pre-orders with deliveries expected to start in March 2023. The PHEV saloon is priced at an estimated RM355,000, inclusive of 10% sales tax. Agility+ Plan by Mercedes-Benz Financial is available for the new C-Class.
Amanda Zhang, CEO & President, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia said that the C350e serves as a bridge towards an all-electric future and will pave the way for other plug-in hybrid models to come. The saloon offers the flexibility of covering everyday routes for the most part in all-electric mode without using the combustion engine.
A PHEV WITH A RANGE OF UP TO 117KM (WLTP)
The Mercedes-Benz C350e PHEV perfectly integrates performance, efficiency, and sustainability with its advanced powertrain specifications. The 1,999cc engine powers this innovative vehicle, delivering a rated output of 204hp at 6,100 rpm, paired with a robust torque of 320Nm spanning from 2,000rpm to 4,000rpm. This four-cylinder petrol engine ensures a dynamic driving experience.
Supporting the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine is an electric motor with a rated output of 95 kW and a torque of 440 Nm, contributing to a harmonious blend of power sources. This integration results in an impressive max. rated power system output of 313hp and a peak torque of 550Nm at the rated power system output, ensuring a compelling performance. Notably, the C350e boasts an electric range of up to 117km (WLTP), affirming its commitment to sustainable mobility.
The vehicle’s high-voltage (HV) battery, with an energy content of 25.4kWh provides substantial electric range for a variety of journeys. Acceleration from 0 to 100kph is achieved in just 6.1 seconds, showcasing the agility and responsiveness of the C350e, while a top speed of 245kph adds versatility to its capabilities. Meticulously engineered and thoughtfully designed, the Mercedes-Benz C350e PHEV stands as a testament to modern automotive technology, offering a harmonious balance between performance, efficiency, and an impressive electric driving range.
The high-voltage (HV) battery has been developed in-house by Mercedes-Benz AG. It is part of a fourth-generation family of batteries and represents a logical evolution of the previous generation. It consists of 96 cells in a so-called pouch configuration. To account for the high energy density, the HV battery has an internal cooling system. The thermal management system can therefore control the operating temperature irrespective of the climate control in the vehicle interior. A standard-fit 11kW charger is available for three-phase charging at a Wallbox connected to the domestic AC mains. Included with the C 350 e is a mode 2 charging cable.
The positioning of the battery in the vehicle brings advantages on a day-to-day basis compared with the previous model: there is no longer a step in the boot, and through-loading is now possible.
To counter the additional weight of the battery, the C350e is equipped with self-levelling suspension in the rear. The system quickly adapts to the subtle changes of the road in relation to the vehicle’s dynamics in order to provide an undisturbed ride.
AN EXTERIOR EMBELLISHED WITH AMG LINE STYLING
The new C-Class is even more dynamic, thanks to its AMG Line styling, featuring the iconic Mercedes-Benz pattern grille with the star design in chrome with 18-inch AMG 5-spoke light-alloy wheels. Night Package includes sporty, expressive design elements in high-gloss black such as the louvre of the radiator shell, trim moulding in the AMG front apron, beltline trim strip and window surround, and exterior mirror housings.
Other key exterior highlights include DIGITAL LIGHT, Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus, panoramic sliding sunroof, and ambient lighting with projection of brand logo. The rear-end design is typical of a Mercedes-Benz saloon. The high-quality design of the tail lamps fascinates with an unmistakable day and night appearance.
AN INTERIOR DECKED WITH AMG LINE ELEMENTS
The new C-Class features an AMG Line interior with metal structure trim elements, multifunction sports steering wheel in nappa leather, and AMG floor mats. The ARTICO man-made leather upholstery in black and instrument panel and beltlines in ARTICO man-made leather in nappa look further accentuates the sense of comfort in the cabin.
The high-resolution 12.3-inch LCD screen and 11.9-inch touchscreen central display are slightly tilted towards the driver by six degrees. The vehicle is also equipped with the latest generation of MBUX multimedia system making the interior more digital and intelligent.
Other cabin highlights include sport seats, fingerprint scanner, front wireless charging, ambient lighting and smartphone integration package. With safety in mind, the new C-Class features 360-degree camera, Blind Spot Assist, Active Brake Assist, and GUARD 360-degree Vehicle protection.
LEANING TOWARDS AN ELECTRIC DRIVING EXPERIENCE
All in all, the driving experience is significantly more electric. In view of the increase in electric range of up to 117 kilometres (WLTP), drivers will be able to cover most everyday journeys under electric power alone. The energy recovery function allows kinetic energy to be recuperated during deceleration or downhill driving, a process that has now also been improved in interaction with the hydraulic brake. The energy recovery output is now over 100 kW.
The intelligent, route-based operating strategy activates the electric driving mode where this is most appropriate for the route. It takes into account such factors as navigation data, topography, speed limits and the traffic conditions for the entire planned route.
A driver wishing to influence the energy recovery rate can do so directly in three stages controlled by rocker switches behind the steering wheel. This is possible in all driving modes except SPORT. In the driving mode D-, for example, the driver can experience the “one-pedal feeling”: When the driver takes his foot off the accelerator the vehicle slows down, purely by electric means, to such an extent that the hydraulic foot brake is often not needed.
The operating strategy communicates with the sensors of the assistance systems and thus efficiently supports the driver in many driving situations. Over longer distances in urban areas, for instance, the car will prioritise electric driving. With the BATTERY HOLD driving mode, maintaining the charge state of the high-voltage battery is given priority, for example when intending to drive in a city center; selection of the most suitable drive configuration by the hybrid powertrain system, depending on the driving situation and route.
The new C-Class has a haptic accelerator pedal module with a pressure point at an accelerator pedal angle of 9.7°. In ELECTRIC mode, this power surge is activated and allows all-electric vehicle operation up to the additional pressure point. If the pressure point is overridden, the combustion engine starts and delivers additional torque.
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class C350e PHEV is said to replace the C 300 in the C-Class lineup. The C 200 remains the entry point to the C-Class world.
