Mercedes-Benz announced the release of their latest plug in hybrid earlier this year, the C300de. Luxurious and efficient, the C300de car offers the latest hybrid technology in our much loved C-Class Estate and Saloon models, making for an impeccable low-emission drive.

The Engine

The C300de combines an internal combustion engine with battery power to deliver lower emissions. In this case, the 2 litre, four cylinder diesel engine alone produces 191bhp, while the battery provides 121bhp. The overall result is 302bhp, with 516lb ft of torque. The addition of the latest 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission optimises efficiency and pulling power.

The electric motor can run independently for 35 miles, which is perfect for minimising emissions for local journeys. C02 emissions range from 38 – 42g per km which keeps running costs low, particularly if you are more of a short-range driver.

c300de display

Hybrid Technology

ECO Assist technology compiles intelligence from radar sensors, cameras and makes recommendations based on the type of drive being undertaken. This includes guidance on easing off the throttle, and communications with the automatic transmission to maximise the range of electric drive while saving fuel.

Meanwhile, the intuitive navigation system will use journey information to reserve battery charge for urban driving, while using the internal combustion engine for longer motorway stretches.

Technical Data at a Glance:

Taken from Daimler Global Media
C 300 de Saloon 1 C 300 de Estate 1
Number of cylinders/arrangement/type 4/in-line/diesel 4/in-line/diesel
Displacement (cc) 1950 1950
Rated output of combustion engine (kW/hp at rpm) 143/194 at 3800 143/194 at 3800
Rated torque of combustion engine (Nm at rpm) 400 at 1600-2800 400 at 1600-2800
Rated output of electric motor (kW) 90 90
System output (kW/hp) 225/306 225/306
System torque (Nm) 700 700
Acceleration 0-100 km/h (s) 5.6 5.7
Top speed (km/h) 250 250
Top speed, electric (km/h) over 130 over 130
Combined fuel consumption from (l/100 km) 1.6-1.4 1.6-1.5
Combined CO2 emissions from (g/km) 42-38 42-39
Total battery capacity (kWh) 13.5 13.5
Combined electrical consumption (kWh/100 km) 18.7 19.1
Electric range (km) up to 57 up to 56
1 The stated figures were determined in accordance with the prescribed measuring method. These are the "NEDC CO2 figures" according to Art. 2 No. 1 Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/1153. The fuel consumption figures were calculated based on these figures.

Mercedes-Benz hybrid

The Drive

The C300de interior features all of the luxury and opulence that the C-Class is known for. The hybrid technology, along with the stylish and comfortable interior, makes for an extremely smooth ride, with the added benefit of leading the charge in low-emission drive.

Efficient, stylish and effortless, this latest plug-in hybrid is an excellent choice for drivers who combine smaller town driving with occasional motorway journeys. The CO2 stats make it an exceptional company vehicle for keeping costs low.

The C300de will be available from autumn 2019. For corporate queries contact your Local Business Development Manager.

To learn more about hybrid technology, read Greg Fanning's (General Manager, David Lloyd Club Exeter) review of the E300de hybrid.