Mercedes-Benz GLC F-CELL plug-in hydrogen hybrid goes into preproduction

By Matt De Prez

12 September 2017

Mercedes-Benz has presented a preproduction model of the new GLC F‑CELL at the 2017 Frankfurt motor show.

Under the technology designation EQ Power, the latest electric model (destined for subsequent series production) from Mercedes-Benz combines fuel-cell and battery technology in the form of a plug-in hybrid. In addition to hydrogen, the all-electric variant of the SUV will also run on electricity.

Mercedes-Benz says intelligent interplay between battery and fuel cell, along with short refuelling times, will in future make the GLC F‑CELL a vehicle of high everyday practicality and also suitable for long-distance motoring.

It has a total power output of 200PS and with 4.4kg of hydrogen on board, the preproduction model produces enough energy for a range of up to 271 miles while drivers will also benefit from a range of up to 30 miles in on battery.

Like the GLC Plug-in Hybrid, the fuel-cell variant comes with various operating modes and drive programs. The drive programs of the GLC F-CELL will include Eco, Comfort and Sport. Eco is optimised for low consumption. Comfort is geared not only for comfort, but also provides ideal climate control. Sport optimises the hybrid powertrain for sporty performance.

Blue touches on the radiator grille, alloy wheels, side skirts and rear bumper provide a clearly visible indication of the fuel-cell drive. Specifically styled bumpers, with an enlarged air inlet at the front, as well as aerodynamically optimised 20-inch wheels are the hallmarks of the vehicles on show at Frankfurt.

Daimler is systematically working to prepare for series production of the Mercedes-Benz GLC F-CELL. With the current test fleet, the Mercedes-Benz engineers are taking the final key steps on the road to production start-up. Market-specific sales concepts, including a rental model, are being evaluated at present. Like the conventionally powered GLC, this family-friendly SUV of high everyday practicality will be produced in Bremen.