What's this about?

Having introduced plug-in drivetrains to the S-Class Mercedes-Benz is now offering the same technology in the C-Class in the guise of the new C 350 Plug-In Hybrid, available as a saloon and estate. It can run in electric mode for 19 miles and comes with an official fuel economy figure of 134.5mpg with CO₂ emissions of 48g/km (49g/km for the estate). The plug-in C-Class will arrive in the UK from summer 2016.

How does it work?

For the C-Class, power comes from a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, turbocharged petrol engine that develops 211hp and 350Nm of torque. This is combined with an electric motor for a combined output of 279hp and 600Nm. The motor is incorporated into the seven-speed automatic transmission in place of the torque converter, along with a clutch to disconnect the engine from the driveline.

A variety of driving modes are available depending on whether the driver wants to maximise performance, battery charge or economy. When making full use of the performance Mercedes claims 0-62mph is possible in 5.9 seconds. If you're after economy the on-board computers will use information from the navigation system and on-board radar to make the best use of the electric motor. To help with that the C-Class is fitted with something called a haptic accelerator pedal, which provides feedback to the driver. In electric mode pedal resistance increases when maximum performance is used, indicating that further pressure will turn on petrol power. When the radar detects traffic ahead a double impulse signals the driver to lift off, minimising the need for braking in stop-go traffic.

What about the batteries?

A lithium-ion battery pack, weighing about 100kg, is fitted underneath the back axle to keep the boot clear. The on-board charging system can be used with public charging points or domestic electricity supplies and maximum charging time is given as two hours.

Anything else?

All C 350 Plug-In Hybrids come with Airmatic air suspension as standard; this offers self-levelling and the ability to switch between comfort and sport settings. Buyers also get Pre-Entry Climate Control, which allows the interior temperature of the car to be set before starting a journey. It is possible to activate the climate control over the internet and the same interface also allows the driver to check the battery and charging status.