Semi-electric model of facelifted C-Class gets better battery for more power and range.
Mercedes-Benz Thailand has officially released the plug-in hybrid model of the facelifted C-Class after reintroducing a diesel variant earlier this year.
Now called C300e, the semi-electric C-Class gets a better lithium-ion battery for more power and all-electric driving range.
Together with the electric motor, the 2.0-litre petrol-turbo engine produces 320hp and 700Nm of torque.
That’s 41hp and 100Nm more than in the outgoing C350e allowing for a 0.5sec quicker 0-100kph acceleration time, at 5.4sec. The previous seven-speed automatic has also be replaced with a nine-speeder.
The new 13.5kWh battery has double the power density of the older pack enabling the all-electric driving range to increase from 31-50km.
Two trims are available for the C300e. The Avantgarde look, sporting a more traditional front grille and wheels, costs 2.64 million baht, 50k more than before.
The AMG Dynamic grade, featuring diamond-studded radiator cover and sportier wheels, goes for 3.215 million baht, up by 66k.
The only other rival to have plug-in hybrid version to choose from is the BMW 330e. However, that’s based on the older generation.
The new-generation 330e is expected to come later this year featuring a similar formula with the C300e: bigger battery, increased power and longer all-electric driving range.
Both the C300e and 330e are built in the country under special promotions handed out by the Thai government for electrified vehicles.
