Mercedes is introduction the GLC F-CELL, the world’s first plug-in
fuel-cell vehicle and one that has a combined range of 310 miles between
hydrogen refills.
On the outside, the F-CELL has the same dimensions
as the standard GLC-Class, but it takes on some aesthetic cues of its own. Up
front, the same Mercedes Mercedes grille sits ahead of the nose with its double-louver
appearance and honeycomb mesh. Down below, the air dam has a gray trim insert
that surrounds it and honeycomb mesh inside. The air inlet in each corner also
carries over and sports the honeycomb mesh as well. The headlight units look to
be the same but are outlined with a light blue color that clearly symbolizes
its water-derived hydrogen-powered nature. The blue outline can also be seen at
the bottom of the fascia.
It’s safe to assume that the cabin
of the F-CELL will be identical to that of the standard GLC. This means you’ll
see the plus cabin with two-tone upholstery, a large infotainment display
perched on the center stack, Mercedes’ latest instrument cluster, a simplified
dash and center console, and a flat bottom steering wheel.
Mercedes hasn’t released an incredible
amount of information about this new GLC F-CELL, but we do know that it
features two carbon-fiber-encased hydrogen tanks that only take a few minutes
to fill up, and the onboard battery can be charged via a standard 120-volt wall
socket, a Mercedes-Benz wall box, or a public charging station. Furthermore,
that onboard battery is also charged on the fly via an energy recuperation
system that kicks in during braking and coasting.
According to Mercedes’ recent press release, the
model will be launched in 2017, which means it should be available in areas
where hydrogen fueling stations are available. Of course, there won’t be much
for competition at this time, but Mercedes will take pride in setting up shop
before the market explodes with production models from every other
manufacturer.
