Mercedes-Benz unveils V-Class concept plug-in hybrid MPV

At the Geneva International Motor Show, Mercedes-Benz unveiled the Concept V?ision e: a plug-in hybrid concept version of its V-Class MPV. The plug-in hybrid van utilizes the same advanced drive system as in the new Mercedes-Benz C 350 e plug-in hybrid and offers NEDC fuel consumption of 3.0 liters per 100 km (78 mpg US), corresponding to CO₂emissions of 71 g/km. The MPV concept can travel up to 50 km in the all-electric mode if driven at a maximum speed of 80 km/h (50 mph).

The four-cylinder gasoline engine has an output of 155 kW (210 hp) and develops a maximum torque of 350 N·m (258 lb-ft), while the electric motor delivers 90 kW and 340 N·m (250 lb-ft) of torque. This results in a system output of 245 kW (333 hp) and a system torque of up to 600 N·m (443 lb-ft).

The Concept V?ision e accelerates from 0–100 km/h in 6.1 seconds—faster out of the box than the current V 250 BlueTEC top engine variant and has a top speed of 206 km/h (128 mph).

Energy for the electric motor is stored in a high-voltage lithium-ion battery with a total capacity of 13.5 kWh. The high-voltage battery can be recharged using an external power source.

The vehicle’s intelligent drive-system management program automatically selects the ideal combination of combustion engine and electric motor. The range of options here includes a nearly silent electrical start (silent start); use of the electric motor to support the gasoline engine during acceleration, for example (boost); and energy recovery (recuperation) during braking and when the vehicle is coasting.

All recovered energy is stored in the battery and can later be used for electric driving or for the boost function. Drivers can also manage hybrid interaction manually, in which case they can choose from four different modes (Hybrid, E-Mode, E-Save and Charge) that can be selected using a switch.

The handling and efficiency of the hybrid drive system is underscored by the exterior design of the Concept V?ision e. The interior of the Concept V?ision e is intended to bring to mind the spaciousness of a modern loft. Virtually the entire roof of the vehicle is made of glass. The 1.92 x 1.12-m panoramic sliding sunroof is divided into two sections and lets in a large amount of light.

Along with the panoramic sliding sunroof, the Concept V?ision e also includes other new equipment features that make for even greater comfort and more varied personalization options for the V?Class as a private or business vehicle.

The Concept V?ision e also provides a comfortable working environment with two foldable convenient tables and two iPad holders integrated into the driver and front-passenger seat backrests. Each of the tables is 35 x 35 cm, which offers sufficient space for documents. The iPad holder can be tilted and rotated 90 degrees and is equipped with an integrated charging interface and two USB charging ports. Another new feature that benefits both the rear passengers and the driver and front passenger is the large center console. It offers several cup holders, a large stowage compartment, USB ports, an SD card slot, a five-liter cooler as well as a 220-V and a 12-V socket.