A plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) combines an electric motor, which can be recharged externally, with an internal combustion engine. Thanks to the electric-only driving mode, plug-in hybrids offer key benefits such as reduced fuel consumption, which means lower running costs, and reduced emissions.

Plug-in hybrid cars can run on this electric-only mode for a certain distance and when the battery is depleted, or the car has higher power demands, the combustion engine will seamlessly kick in, switching into hybrid mode.

This dual power flexibility means petrol or diesel plug-in vehicles are great for the daily commute but also suitable for longer journeys.

The Mercedes-Benz plug-in hybrid vehicle range is available from compact cars, such as A-Class and CLA, through to the SUVs range, plus estates and saloons, including the S-Class.

Mercedes-Benz plug-in hybrid vehicles are equipped with a combustion engine for long-distance capability and high-speed performance, plus an electric motor which is powered by a rechargeable battery.

These PHEV cars can operate in three modes including all-electric, hybrid (which blends electric and combustion power for optimal efficiency), or combustion mode. The intelligent energy management system seamlessly switches between power sources based on driving conditions and uses regenerative braking to recover energy during deceleration which recharges the battery.

The Mercedes-Benz range offers both petrol hybrid cars and diesel hybrids too. Our automatic hybrid cars are available in various body types including saloon, SUV, coupé, estate and hatchback, combining luxury, performance and electric efficiency.

Drive system components: innovative technology with intelligent interaction for greater efficiency.

The combination of a lithium-ion high-voltage battery and a combustion engine makes a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) car a versatile option for long journeys. With reduced fuel consumption and lower local, on-the-road CO₂ emissions, the almost silent (when in electric mode) driving experience can offer great ranges. The intelligent drive management system automatically selects the ideal combination of combustion engine and electric motor to efficiently generate energy and achieve a maximum range.

Plug-in hybrid models vehicles are efficient because they recuperate energy during deceleration and reduce the load on the combustion engine.

An overview of how the electric and combustion engines operate to deliver power and optimise recuperation can be gained in real time using the Energy Flow display which can be selected in the head unit of plug-in hybrid vehicles.

Several environmental conditions can have an impact on the electric range that can be achieved with your hybrid car:
• Stop-and-go driving in rush-hour traffic
• Short trips
• Adverse weather such as snow, sleet, high winds
• Topography of journey, e.g. steep inclines.

Cold weather is the main factor in impacting range as thermal regulation to maintain battery operation uses more energy in the cold and heating a car uses more energy. A top tip is to use pre-conditioning and seat heating.

Other factors include extra weight, such as bike racks or items stored in the boot will impact range, plus incorrect tyre pressures; whether that’s over or under-inflated, so should be checked regularly to ensure they are as prescribed.

There are various options to charge your Mercedes-Benz plug-in hybrid car.

• Home charging - A domestic wallbox home charger is recommended for charging your PHEV, if your property allows. This enables the vehicle to reach its full electric range again within a short time. PHEV vehicles can also be charged at home using a standard 3-pin socket. If you are planning to charge your Mercedes-Benz plug-in electric vehicle using a 3-pin domestic plug socket you must get a qualified electrician to inspect and sign off the socket to confirm it is safe and suitable to charge your vehicle. Do not use an electric vehicle 3-pin charge cable with an extension cord.

Learn more about charging cars at home

• Public charging - You can find public charging points in car parks, service stations, shopping centres and workplaces. MB.CHARGE Public is the Mercedes-Benz charging network which provides access to a multitude of charging stations and the vehicle’s navigation system can help you find their precise location and availability.

Learn more about public electric car charging

When purchasing a new plug-in hybrid car, Mercedes-Benz offer three-years unlimited mileage warranty on manufacturing or material defects and up to 30 years warranty against perforation due to corrosion from the inside out. Plus, the battery warranty is 6 years or 62,500 miles.

Roadside Assistance is free-of-charge for 3 years with any new Mercedes-Benz or 1 year with all Approved Used cars. This complimentary cover provides pan-European breakdown assistance covering Technical breakdown, Minor mishap, Accident assistance and Vandalism & Theft.

Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicles (MHEV) offer a smoother and more responsive driving experience, with the electric motor providing additional torque for seamless acceleration.

Other features of Mild Hybrid cars include:

• Improved Fuel Efficiency: The electric motor assists the combustion engine, reducing fuel consumption.

• Reduced Emissions: By optimizing engine performance, MHEVs contribute to lower CO₂ emissions.

• Enhanced Acceleration: Both the electric motor and combustion engine work together to deliver responsive acceleration.

What is a Mild Hybrid car?

A Mild Hybrid Vehicle is a type of vehicle that combines a traditional combustion engine with an electric motor to enhance efficiency and performance. Unlike fully electric vehicles, MHEVs use the electric motor to assist the combustion engine rather than power the vehicle independently. This allows for improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. 

Mild hybrid cars do not require external charging. Plug-in hybrids have larger batteries and can drive solely on electric power for a certain distance, whereas MHEVs always operate with the combustion engine in tandem with the electric motor.

Mercedes-Benz offers a diverse range of models equipped with mild-hybrid technology. This innovative feature enhances performance and efficiency, providing a seamless driving experience. For more information on available mild-hybrid models, contact your local Mercedes-Benz Agent.

Some of the model features, optional extras and colours shown may not be available, or may only be available in a different specification, or at a different price.