The automotive world witnessed a significant leap forward with the unveiling of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive at the New York International Auto Show. This groundbreaking vehicle marked Mercedes-Benz’s entry into the luxury electric car market, showcasing a seamless blend of dynamic design, a premium interior, and a potent electric motor, all while delivering zero-emission driving. Designed for a spirited and eco-conscious driving experience, the Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive boasted an estimated range of approximately 115 miles (200 km) and cutting-edge digital connectivity, allowing for convenient monitoring and control via the internet. True to the Mercedes-Benz heritage, this electric marvel upheld the brand’s renowned standards of comfort, quality, and safety, setting a new benchmark for electric vehicles in the luxury segment. Launching first in the USA in early 2014, the Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive was poised to redefine expectations for electric mobility.
The 2014 B-Class Electric Drive promised a driving experience that was both exhilarating and serene. Its brisk acceleration and near-silent operation offered a unique sensation of gliding effortlessly on the road. Occupants were treated to the familiar Mercedes-Benz comfort, characterized by a meticulously crafted, high-quality interior and ample space. This electric vehicle delivered pure driving pleasure with zero local emissions, embodying electric driving at a premium level that only Mercedes-Benz could offer.
Dr. Joachim Schmidt, then a member of the Mercedes-Benz Cars Board of Management responsible for Sales and Marketing, emphasized the vehicle’s appeal: “The B-Class Electric Drive caters to the desires of numerous customers seeking emission-free driving without compromising the core Mercedes-Benz attributes: safety, comfort, and, of course, exhilarating driving pleasure.”
The Potent Heart of the B-Class Electric Drive: Performance and Power
Building upon the success of the conventionally powered Mercedes-Benz B-Class, a popular model since its 2011 debut, the Electric Drive variant extended the B-Class’s versatility into the realm of eco-friendly driving. In the US market, the B-Class Electric Drive was exclusively offered with a battery electric powertrain, highlighting Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to electric mobility in this key region.
At the heart of the Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive was a robust electric motor generating over 134 horsepower (100 kW). True to the nature of electric powertrains, it delivered instant maximum torque of 228 lb.-ft. from the moment the accelerator pedal was engaged. This level of torque was comparable to a modern 3.0-liter gasoline engine, translating to remarkable off-the-line acceleration. The electric B-Class could sprint from 0 to 60 mph (100 km/h) in under ten seconds, ensuring confident performance and dynamic, engaging driving in diverse conditions.
The high-capacity lithium-ion battery pack was strategically housed within the vehicle’s “Energy Space,” located in the underfloor. This intelligent packaging solution optimized space utilization and safety, allowing the five-seater B-Class Electric Drive to retain the generous interior and luggage capacity of its conventionally powered counterpart.
Extended Range and Convenient Charging for the Mercedes-Benz EV
To maximize driving range, the top speed of the Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive was electronically limited to 100 mph (160 km/h). The vehicle offered a range of approximately 115 miles (200 kilometers) based on driving cycle assessments. This range capability made it suitable not only for emission-free urban commutes and short trips but also for longer journeys, comfortably accommodating the daily driving needs of many commuters.
Charging the Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive was designed to be convenient and accessible. The battery could be recharged at any standard domestic power outlet. In the United States, using a 240V/40A power source, replenishing the battery for a range of about 60 miles (100 kilometers) took less than 2 hours.
Furthermore, the electric drive system itself contributed to energy efficiency through regenerative braking. During deceleration and braking, the system converted kinetic energy back into electricity, feeding it back into the battery and enhancing overall energy management.
Dynamic Design and Premium Interior: The Hallmarks of the B-Class
The Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive embodied refined sportiness and visual appeal, showcasing the brand’s assertive and dynamic design language. Characterized by powerful, taut lines and sophisticated details, the exterior design emphasized width, particularly at the front and rear. A prominent front grille, headlights that flowed into the vehicle’s sides, a broad rear window, split tail lamps, and a large tailgate with a low loading sill all contributed to its distinctive appearance. Dynamic side sill panels and striking bumpers with bar-shaped LED daytime running lamps further enhanced its sporty character. The charging socket was discreetly integrated behind a charging flap, maintaining the vehicle’s sleek aesthetic.
Inside, the B-Class Electric Drive upheld Mercedes-Benz’s high standards of comfort and luxury. Premium materials, finely textured surfaces, meticulous detailing, and precise craftsmanship underscored the elevated experience of electric driving as defined by Mercedes-Benz. Sporty round air vents with uniquely designed cross-form nozzles in the center console added to the interior’s emotional design. A modern, seemingly free-floating display screen for the telematics system was positioned above the air vents, serving as a focal point of the cockpit.
The B-Class Electric Drive offered advanced information and communication systems, synonymous with Mercedes-Benz luxury. Standard features included the Audio 20 system with a 14.7 cm color screen, twin tuner, MP3-compatible CD player, and USB connectivity. Navigation was provided by the Becker® MAP PILOT system, with the option to upgrade to the COMAND Online multimedia system, featuring internet access, navigation, and voice control.
Specific electric vehicle functions were seamlessly integrated into the instrumentation. A power display was added to the dial instrument cluster, indicating power consumption in the clockwise direction from green to red, and regenerative energy flow back to the battery below the zero line.
Seamless Connectivity and Advanced Safety Features
The Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive was designed to be not only environmentally conscious and agile but also fully connected. Remote vehicle monitoring and configuration were made possible through the Vehicle Homepage, allowing drivers to access their vehicle via PC or smartphone. This connectivity enabled users to check the battery’s charge status, verify the vehicle’s range on a map, and even plan routes with charging stop suggestions. Pre-entry climate control, allowing for timed pre-heating or cooling, further enhanced the connectivity features, setting a new benchmark in its segment.
Safety remained a paramount concern for Mercedes-Benz, and the B-Class Electric Drive incorporated the brand’s stringent safety standards. The innovative “Energy Space” ensured the battery was securely housed under the floor for optimal crash protection. The vehicle also came standard with the radar-based COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST system with adaptive Brake Assist, providing visual and acoustic warnings of potential obstacles, preparing the driver for braking, and assisting with braking as needed to mitigate rear-end collision risks. Optional advanced driver assistance systems, including Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Active Park Assist, were also available.
Mercedes-Benz: Leading the Charge in Electric Mobility
The Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive exemplified the brand’s commitment to sustainable mobility and its leadership in the electric vehicle sector. Joining models like the B-Class F-CELL and the SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive (and complementing the smart fortwo electric drive), the B-Class Electric Drive demonstrated Mercedes-Benz’s dedication to producing electric vehicles that were not only innovative but also fully practical for everyday use. With its blend of luxury, performance, and zero-emission driving, the Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive was a significant step towards a cleaner and more sustainable automotive future.
Preliminary Technical Data
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Output | more than 134 hp (100 kW) |
| Torque | more than 228 lb.-ft. |
| Range | 115 miles [US City], 200 km [NEFZ] |
| Charging time for 60 miles range | USA: 2 hours (240 V/40 A) |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | under 10 seconds |
| Top speed | 100 mph (160 km/h), electronically limited |
Quick Reference Guide: 2014 B-Class Electric Drive:
Customer Availability:
- B-Class Electric Drive – Early 2014
Performance:
- 2014 B-Class Electric Drive (134 hp/100 kW, 228 lb.-ft.)
Standard Feature Highlights:
- 28 kWh lithium-ion battery
- Charging time range for 60 miles: 2 hours
- 0-60 mph in less than 10 seconds
- COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST w/ Adaptive Brake Assist
- Audio 20 with 5.8″ color screen
- MP3-capable CD player and USB connection
- Becker MAP PILOT
- LED daytime running lamp
Optional Feature Highlights:
- COMAND Online with internet access, navigation, and voice control
- Blind Spot Assist
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Active Parking Assist
