KUALA LUMPUR: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has previewed the all-new C 300 4Matic electric AMG Line Plus, the first all-electric version of its popular C-Class.
With an estimated price of RM360,888, this model is available for pre-booking and combines 310kW (421hp) and 800Nm of torque with a claimed driving range of up to 690km based on the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP).
In terms of performance, it can accelerate from 0 to 100kph in 4.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 210kph thanks to its 85kWh lithium-ion battery that features an 800V electrical architecture.
For charging, the vehicle comes with a 22kW on-board AC charger (full charge in 4.5 hours) and can take up to 320Kw of fast DC charging that can add on 290km of driving range in span of 10 minutes, while a 10% to 80% charge will take about 22 minutes.
The German luxury carmaker in Malaysia is also offering the model through its Agility+ financing plan, with estimated monthly instalments starting from RM3,988.
The package includes a fifth-year Star Gold extended limited warranty and four Compact Service Packages, alongside flexible end-of-agreement options and a guaranteed future value for the vehicle.
The all-electric C-Class is said to retain the familiar sedan proportions of the model range but adopts a more aerodynamic, coupe-like profile via a low front end, sloping roofline and rounded rear.
At the front, an illuminated Mercedes-Benz grille features a dark chrome frame, smoked glass-look mesh and an illuminated central three-pointed star.
The Digital Light headlights feature a star-inspired design, while the rear gets four round, deep-red star-design taillights.
The AMG Line Plus specification is complemented by 20-inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels, a Night Package that entails high-gloss black exterior accents, an AMG spoiler lip, and surround lighting with animated Mercedes-Benz projections.
Inside, the cabin adopts a new layout dominated by the MBUX Hyperscreen, which stretches across the dashboard with a 39.1-inch display and is powered by MB.OS (Mercedes-Benz Operating System) that supports connected services, navigation, entertainment and digital functions.
The front passenger display also features a camera-based blocking function to minimise distraction for the driver while allowing the passenger to access its functions.
Other equipment includes a Burmester 3D surround sound system, a selfie and video camera, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, augmented reality navigation and a wireless charger.
To finish the interior, black leather upholstery is used that comes with red contrast stitching and matching seat belts, complemented by black and silver metallic mixed-fabric trim.
A multifunction sports steering wheel wrapped in Nappa leather, ambient lighting and illuminated door sills add to the cabin's premium feel.
A Sky Control panoramic roof is another highlight, featuring nine independently switchable segments that can change between transparent and opaque while incorporating 162 illuminated stars, which can be synchronised with the ambient lighting system to create a distinctive cabin atmosphere.
In terms of practicality, the electric C-Class has a 470-litre boot and an additional 101-litre front storage compartment under the hood.
Its 2,962mm wheelbase is 97mm longer than a conventionally powered C-Class saloon, for additional cabin space where front passengers now benefit from 12mm more legroom while headroom has been increased by 22mm at the front and 11mm at the rear.
Comfort features include heated front seats, Thermatic two-zone automatic climate control and heat- and noise-insulating laminated front glass.
The vehicle also comes with a comfort suspension system featuring passive damping that automatically adapts to road conditions.
Power comes from a permanently excited synchronous motor (PSM) at the rear axle, supported by a front electric motor for its 4Matic all-wheel-drive system that's managed by a two-speed transmission located on the rear axle, and is said to provide a good balance between acceleration and efficiency.
The first gear has an 11:1 ratio to provide strong initial acceleration and efficiency in urban driving, while the second gear uses a 5:1 ratio for higher-speed cruising and improved highway efficiency.
The front motor operates as a boost drive when additional power or traction is required, while a disconnect unit decouples it under low-load conditions to reduce energy losses.
The company said that the system is able to reduce losses at the front axle by up to 90% when the additional motor is not needed.
The braking system also incorporates energy recuperation of up to 300kW, helping to recover energy during deceleration.
For safety and driver assistance, the new C-Class comes with up to 27 cameras and sensors, alongside MB.DRIVE Assist and MB.DRIVE Parking Assist 360.
Other equipment includes a 360-degree camera system, active driving assistance, up to 11 airbags, Pre-Safe and an acoustic presence indicator that alerts pedestrians and other road users when travelling at speeds of up to 30kph.
Mercedes-Benz Group AG (Sales and Customer Experience) management board member Mathias Geisen said the company is bringing its biggest product launch programme to markets around the world.
"We are delighted that our customers in Malaysia can now experience the all-new electric C-Class. With groundbreaking technology, pioneering design and distinctive sportiness, it opens a new chapter for one of our most successful model families,” he said.
Mercedes-Benz Cars Malaysia CEO and president, and Mercedes-Benz Cars Southeast Asia head Martin Schulz said the C-Class has become a much-loved model among customers for years.
"We are proud to introduce the first all-electric C-Class to our market. For us, this is about offering greater choice while staying true to the qualities that have made the C-Class so valued over the years," he said.
Meanwhile, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia chief operating officer Kevin Barbian said the C-Class' 4Matic all-wheel drive delivers instant response and confident traction.
"A driving range of up to 690km and fast-charging capability give customers the flexibility to travel further with ease," he said.
