2014 Mercedes-Benz B-Class EV Details and Pricing Announced

Mercedes-B-Class-Ev-Paris-Motor-Show

Mercedes-Benz officially entered the EV race by debuting the B-class electric vehicle at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, albeit without much fanfare. Based on the Europe-only subcompact B-class, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz B-class EV is aimed at providing a luxurious, spirited alternative to traditional class offerings, such as the Nissan LEAF and Ford Focus Electric.

Developed in tandem with American Tesla Motors, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz B-class EV has a definite focus on the driver experience. With its front-wheel drive, the B-class’ 28 kWh battery pack powers the electric engine, developing a respectable 177 horsepower and 251 lb.-ft. of torque at 0 rpm. This allows for a 0-60 time of under 8 seconds–it’ll certainly put a smile on drivers’ faces. Fun, too, is the “S” drive mode on the B-class, allowing for sharper throttle response and a more dynamic experience. However, the small capacity of the B’s electric motor means that range is limited to a mere 85 miles, or under a third of the top-tier Tesla’s range. Keeping in mind that the B-class is meant to be a city runabout, this range seems understandable.

Mercedes Benz B-Klasse Electric Drive, (W 242), 2013

Very few options have been announced for the B-class EV, but those with longer commutes can opt for the Range Plus package, increasing total range to around 100 miles per full charge. This range, however, will be extended with the B-class’ regenerative braking technology, controlled by bilateral steering wheel paddles. Optional, too, is a 240-Volt household charge setup, which Mercedes claims will administer a full charge in approximately 3.5 hours. Conversely, the standard 120-Volt charger will take around 30 hours for a full charge. Mercedes also claims that the B-class’ 28 kWh battery pack will retain around 70% of its capacity following 100,000 miles of use, meaning that longevity isn’t a concern for B-class EV buyers.

Recently, Mercedes announced that the B-class will start at $41,450 before federal EV tax credits, which can total up to $10,000. This slots the B-class in right with its competitors from Ford and Nissan, making a serious value argument for the B-class. Expect the B-class EV to begin hitting US Mercedes dealerships this summer.

Please enjoy this TFLcar video review of the 2014 Mercedes E250 BlueTec…

frank kosarekFrank caught automotive fever early in life. Hailing from a long line of car fanatics, he was able to recite the year and model of every car that passed him by age five. His passion and love for the automobile have only grown since then. When not thinking about cars, he is reading, writing, learning, or dreaming about them. His area of expertise is in the realm of German and Italian cars, of which Porsche is a favorite. Frank currently resides in the heart of NASCAR country in Charlotte, North Carolina, with his family. He enjoys driving exotic cars in the beautiful Carolina weather.