Mercedes-Benz has delivered the first examples of its hydrogen-electric GLC F-Cell SUVs to customers in Germany. The new Mercedes GLC F-Cell features a unique plug-in hybrid powertrain that can also run on hydrogen. As a result, the new version of the compact SUV emits no CO2 emissions whatsoever, while the plug-in hybrid powertrain still provides a backup.
With a hydrogen consumption of around 1 kg/100 km, the GLC F-CELL achieves around 430 hydrogen-based kilometers (267 miles) in the NEDC cycle; in hybrid mode it additionally delivers up to 51 km (32 miles) on a fully charged battery. At the same time, an output of 155 kW helps to ensure high driving dynamics. The lithium-ion battery pack has a capacity of 13.5kWh, providing energy to the 208hp electric motor. Mercedes claims that a charge from 10 to 100 percent takes around 1.5 hours. The GLC F-CELL will be available only in select major cities that are equipped with hydrogen filling stations, such as Stuttgart, Düsseldorf, Berlin, Hamburg, Frankfurt, Munich and Cologne.
Moreover, only a small number of GLC F-CELL will be delivered to selected customers and only in a full-service rental model, which sounds more like public beta tests of the immature technology.
“At market launch the SUV will be handed over successively to selected customers in Germany. The GLC F-CELL will be offered exclusively in the form of a full-service rental model. This will include all maintenance and possible repairs together with a comprehensive warranty package covering the entire rental period.”
“From the spring of 2019, other business as well as private customers will also be able to experience the new fuel cell technology and rent the vehicle via Mercedes-Benz Rent from one of the seven GLC F-CELL outlets throughout Germany. The GLC F-CELL will be available for both short and long-term rental via the Premium Car Rental service from Mercedes-Benz.”