Category Archives: Mercedes

News and reviews of Mercedes electric cars (including plug-in hybrids).

Here are 10 of the longest-range electric cars you can buy in 2023

April 12, 2023Electric Cars, Mercedes, News, Reviews and Comment, TeslaRepost

The EVs that’ll make range anxiety a thing of the past

WHAT IS IT?

The Tesla Model 3 is an American four-door saloon car with rear- or -four-wheel drive, seating for five people at a pinch, and a touchscreen inside. Sure, it’s all-electric, but it hardly sounds A Verified Big Deal, does it? But the Tesla Model 3 is one of the most important big deals of the 21st Century so far.

This is Tesla’s affordable entry-level car, designed to take on the best-selling likes of the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, and Mercedes C-Class, not to mention their slow-off-the-mark electric cousins. And thanks to Tesla’s viral, household name status and the ambition of the car’s features, the Model 3 has become a phenomenon.

HOW AFFORDABLE ARE WE TALKING?

It sits below the Model S saloon in the range, and in standard guise is priced from £48,490. That gets you rear-wheel drive, and a claimed 305 miles of range between visits to a public Supercharger, or your home wallbox.

Above that in the ‘3’ pecking order lie two all-wheel drive versions: the Long Range (good for up to 374 miles), and the Performance, which sacrifices a few miles of range but will outrun a Lamborghini Huracán up to the national speed limit.

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Mercedes-Benz reveals plans for new global EV charging network

February 3, 2023Charging, Mercedes, News, Reviews and CommentRepost

During the Mercedes-Benz tech talks at CES 2023, chief technology officer Markus Schäfer announced plans for a branded Mercedes-Benz high-power charging network, which will begin in North America this year, followed by rollout in Europe, China and other main markets.

The North American charging network, consisting of over 400 charging hubs with more than 2,500 high power chargers, is scheduled for completion by 2027.

Mercedes eVito electric van (Image: DPD)

Mercedes have revealed that hubs will typically offer 4 to 12 high power chargers (HPCs) with 350kW charging power, however some regions and locations will have as many as 30 HPCs.

Wait times will also be kept to a minimum, said the car manufacturer, with the help of intelligent charge-load management, which will allow EVs to charge at maximum capacity.

The network will be open to all electric vehicle (EV) brands, whilst Mercedes customers will receive exclusive benefits including chargepoint reservation privileges.

Chargepoint hubs will be located at regular intervals near motorways, major intersections as well as metropolitan areas and will include safety measure such as surveillance cameras. Hubs that are able to accommodate roofing infrastructure will power these cameras using photovoltaic systems, in line with Mercedes’ sustainable business strategy “Ambition 2039”.

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Top 10 best plug-in hybrids to buy 2023

January 9, 2023BMW, Electric Cars, Mercedes, News, Reviews and CommentRepost

The plug-in hybrid market has grown exponentially in recent years. Here are our electrified favourites

Not everyone is ready to take the plunge with a full-electric vehicle, which makes plug-in hybrids (PHEV) a great ‘stepping stone’. What’s more, with many manufacturers joining the PHEV arms race, there’s now a huge array of models to choose from in a variety of formats – whether you want a SUV, saloon, estate or hatchback, there’s an option out there for you, as our list of the best plug-in hybrids to buy confirms.

There are lots of reasons to make the switch from internal-combustion-engined cars to hybrid, whether you’re looking to lower your carbon footprint, take advantage of government incentives, lower tax rates, or just prefer the drive of a plug-in hybrid car.

The sheer variety of vehicles that now offer plug-in hybrid ability means there are PHEV options to suit buyers from a range of markets. It also means that buyers have a tougher time than ever choosing the best plug-in hybrid car for them. On this page we aim to help by explaining the market and delivering our verdicts on the best plug-in hybrids you can buy.

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Electric vans: Six of the best on sale today

September 14, 2021Citroen, e-Expert, Electric Cars, Mercedes, News, Reviews and Comment, PeugeotRepost

THE electric van segment is expanding at an impressive rate. Vans make excellent platforms for electric powertrains, with their long wheelbases and relatively square dimensions ensuring that batteries and motors fit snugly and without any intrusions into the all-important payload.

But with a bigger selection than ever, which one do you opt for? Let’s take a look at some of the best electric vans available today…

1. Peugeot e-Expert

The entirety of the PSA Group is on a real electric endeavour at the moment. It’s particularly noticeable in its range of vans, which spread wide across the group’s various brands. One particular standout is the Peugeot e-Expert, which arrives with a range of 205 miles – one of the best in the business. Practical and well-made inside, and the cab features a clever central touchscreen with plenty of functions.

2. Citroen e-Berlingo

Citroen’s Berlingo has been one of the go-to compact vans for some time now, so it’s only natural that an electric powertrain would be added to it. In the e-Berlingo you get a range of up to 171 miles from a single charge, thanks to a 50kWh battery pack, while a 100kW motor provides sprightly performance. Plus, thanks to 100kW rapid charging, the e-Berlingo’s batteries can be taken to 80% in 30 minutes.

3. Nissan e-NV200

Nissan’s e-NV200 was one of the early adopters of electric power. This compact van brings a range of up to 124 miles during mixed driving – though Nissan says you could see up to 187 miles from a single charge if you’re doing predominantly city driving. As well as the conventional panel van, you can also get a passenger-focused version in the e-NV200 Combi. It only adds another string to the van’s bow.

4. Mercedes eVito

The Vito is an ever-popular van from Mercedes, providing the same high level of fit-and-finish you get from the firm’s road cars, but with a great level of flexibility and practicality. The eVito aims to bring the same positive factors but with an efficient electric powertrain. Though its 92-mile range might mean it’s better suited to short journeys, it’s still available in two lengths – helping it to be more flexible to a variety of buyers.

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Renault Zoe Wins 2019 EV Model Trophy In Germany, BMW Wins Manufacturer Trophy

February 3, 2020E300e PHEV, Electric Cars, Mercedes, Model 3, News, Reviews and Comment, Renault, Tesla, ZOERepost

The German plug-in electric passenger vehicle market ended the year on fire, with registrations more than doubling in December, to 11,328 registrations.

Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) were up 198% year over year (YoY), pulling the market up significantly and balancing the 2019 BEV/PHEV share to 58% BEV (fully electric) vs. 42% PHEV (51% / 49% in December).

The PEV share climbed to 4% in December, with BEVs alone hitting 2%, while the final plug-in vehicle (PEV) share for 2019 ended at a record 3% (1.8% BEVs).

Looking at December best sellers, the Mercedes E300e/de twins three-peated the monthly leadership, with 964 units narrowly beating the high tide Tesla Model 3 (926 units). In addition, the Renault Zoe returned to the podium, with 780 units, signaling the return of the French hatchback.

Just off the podium we have the forever young VW e-Golf, with 764 units registered, while the BMW i3 closes this top 5 thanks to 630 registrations, just barely beating the #6 Smart Fortwo EV (623 units) to the finish line.

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In Tesla’s shadow, Audi and Mercedes electric SUVs get no love

December 11, 2019Audi, Cybertruck, e-tron, Electric Cars, EQC EV, Mercedes, News, Reviews and Comment, Opinion, TeslaRepost

A couple of weeks ago, Mercedes-Benz quietly announced the price for its all-electric EQC sports-utility vehicle.

A $67,900 starting price for a luxurious, 200-mile, 402-horsepower luxury crossover is a good start for the EQC brand. But the announcement got completely lost in the shuffle in a week filled with buzz about Tesla’s bulletproof, stainless-steel Cybertruck. Even the deserved attention given to Ford’s Mustang-inspired electric SUV was cut short. So where does that leave the play-it-safe luxury electric SUVs from Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and BMW?

As we reported a week ago, the $75,000 Audi e-tron has not been a big hit. Don’t get me wrong. Audi loyalists and traditional luxury car buyers appreciate the e-tron’s smooth, comfortable, and safe ride. But relatively low sales numbers suggest that the e-tron is not energy-efficient enough. And it doesn’t have enough range at 204 miles. Or it’s being produced in low numbers. Or there aren’t other stand-out attributes besides being a well-made automobile. Who knows?

But whatever the reason, the first of four all-electric e-tron variants did not stir a big response. Not when it’s facing competition for mindshare from the Cybertruck or an electric Mustang.

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Electric cars with the longest range

November 18, 2019Audi, e-tron, Electric Cars, EQC EV, Hyundai, I-PACE, Jaguar Land Rover, Kia, Kona Electric, Mercedes, Model 3, Model S, Model X, News, Reviews and Comment, Niro EV, Renault, Soul EV, Tesla, ZOERepost

EV range is a hot topic right now so we’ve listed the new electric cars with the longest range you can buy now…

The first question most people have when a new electric car comes out is how much range it has. ‘Range anxiety’ is a phrase often thrown around to describe the fear EV owners could face when driving their electric car with a level of remaining battery charge that may not get them to their destination. As a result, there’s a certain kudos attached to the electric cars with the longest range as well as a valuable competitive advantage manifested as electric car buyers are attracted to them. If you’re wondering which electric car has the longest range, you can find out below.

Manufacturers have quickly realised the importance of range to existing petrol or diesel car owners and now some electric cars can travel just as far on a single charge as an internal combustion engined (ICE) equivalent can manage on a full tank – all the while producing zero emissions at a cheaper running cost to the owner. The fact that most drivers will very rarely travel the kind of distances in a single day that would deplete a modern electric car’s battery is seen as less important than the need to reassure motorists considering the switch to the new technology.

There’s no doubt that the UK’s charging infrastructure still remains a stumbling block for electric cars and their owners. Charging points are increasing in number across the country and charging times are dropping but the chargers that there are are still often in use compounding the fact that recharging an EV is still noticeably slower than filling up a petrol or diesel vehicle.

With increasing investment from the Government and charging infrastructure providers to improve EV charging options coupled with the appeal of emission-free motoring and cheaper running costs than ICE vehicles, electric cars are more appealing than ever. Manufacturers too are in a race to develop enhanced batteries and electric car technology that will increase the range available in electric cars to the point that range anxiety will become a thing of the past.

New Mercedes A 250 e 2019 review

October 6, 2019A250e PHEV, Electric Cars, Mercedes, News, Reviews and CommentRepost

With a claimed economy figure of over 200mpg, the new plug-in Mercedes A 250 e is arguably the pick of the range

Verdict 4.5 Stars
The new Mercedes A 250 e isn’t perfect; the ride is a little firm and the petrol engine isn’t particularly smooth. But none of that will matter when you look at the numbers, which are sure to entice a throng of junior execs into this stylish and desirable plug-in hybrid. It offers a usable range, a quiet and refined electric powertrain, and huge fuel and tax savings to boot. Ignoring the fact it currently has no direct rivals, this is the most convincing A-Class to date.

It’d be somewhat crass to suggest the only reason Mercedes has added a trio of plug-in hybrid versions to its small car range is to help it meet upcoming and ever-stringent emissions legislation.

Yet mass-market cars like the new A-Class PHEV will significantly reduce the company’s overall CO2 rating, allowing it to avoid some fairly significant fines. Cars like these also have the potential to usher sizeable tax benefits to those considering buying one when order books open next month.

No other car in this class – aside from the now defunct Volkswagen Golf GTE – offers a useable all-electric range, let alone one of more than 40 miles on a single charge. BMW will add a PHEV version to the new 1 Series range in the near future, but we’ll have to wait a while until Audi offers its latest A3 executive hatch with a plug.

Daimler stops developing internal combustion engines to focus on electric cars

September 29, 2019Electric Cars, Mercedes, News, Reviews and CommentRepost

After reigning in the auto industry as the powertrain of choice for a century, the internal combustion engine is finally dying.

Now even Daimler says that it is stopping development of new internal combustion engines to focus on electric cars.

The German automaker whose namesake, Gottlieb Daimler, is credited for having invented the prototype of the modern gasoline engine recently released its latest generation internal combustion engine and it might be its last.

According to German magazine Auto Motor und Sport, Daimler development chief Markus Schaefer said that they currently have no plans to develop a next-generation combustion engine and they are focusing on new electric powertrains.

While they will not invest in the development of new combustion engines, Schaefer reportedly noted that they still might work on some specific parts to improve on their existing engines.

In recent years, there have been signs that internal combustion engines were reaching their limits.

It became increasingly clear when the entire industry was caught cheating to make it look like their diesel engines were actually more efficient and less polluting than they actually were.

Furthermore, generations of combustion engines have long development timelines and there are other factors that may render the investment worthless.

For example, several countries are implementing or announcing their intentions to ban the sale of new gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles by 2040.

Has the country that invented the car fallen behind on tech?

June 5, 2019Audi, BMW, Electric Cars, Mercedes, News, Reviews and Comment, Opinion, Porsche, VolkswagenRepost

The relief was palpable from Berlin to Munich when Germany – announced its latest GDP figures.

After months of gloom, modest growth of 0.4pc in the first quarter was heralded as a sign Europe’s largest economy might weather the global slowdown better than most experts predict.

For the first time in six months, Germany is growing again, and the figures follow last week’s announcement that exports rose unexpectedly by 1.5pc in March.

That such lean figures are seen as something to celebrate is a clear indication of how Europe’s industrial powerhouse has slowed – and behind the numbers lurk unpalatable truths.

That there is any growth is down to the service sector and a construction boom fuelled by housing shortages.

The manufacturing sector that is the engine of the German economy, in particular its fabled car industry, is in trouble. Automotive orders fell 5.3pc in the first quarter. In mechanical engineering, the outlook is more bleak, with orders down 7.3pc.

…

But its growth strategy is built around industrial exports, and that has left it exposed. The car industry – the jewel in Germany’s economic crown – has been through a torrid time since the emissions scandal in 2015, when Volkswagen admitted it had installed software in millions of cars to help cheat emissions tests.

This year EU regulators accused BMW, Mercedes-Benz owner Daimler and VW of colluding to block the development and introduction of clean air technology, raising the spectre of multi-billion euro fines.

Already facing expensive recalls, carmakers have run into the growing wave of diesel bans as cities struggle to bring air quality within EU limits. In Germany alone, Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, Stuttgart and Frankfurt have outlawed older diesel cars.

VW announced investment in a new battery cell production plant this week but German carmakers lag far behind US and Chinese rivals in battery technology. The country that invented the car is rapidly falling behind.