2017 Mercedes-Benz B-Class in Roanoke, VA - $11,773

Originally introduced for the 2014 model year, the all-new Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive features dynamic design, a premium interior and a powerful electric motor for emission-free mobility. The B250e sets clear standards in terms of comfort, quality and safety for up to five occupants.
With its refined sportiness, the B-Class Electric Drive features the self-assured and dynamic styling typical of Mercedes with powerfully defined lines and finely crafted details. The front and rear sections express the width of the vehicle. This is ensured by the wide, prominent grille and the headlamps, which wrap round into the sides, as well as by the wide rear window, two-piece taillamps and large liftgate with deep sill. A dynamic look is created by door-sill panels and striking bumpers with bar-shaped LED daytime running lamps. The charge socket is inconspicuously installed behind the conventional fuel door.

Power for the B-Class is generated by an electric motor that produces the gasoline equivalent of a 3.0L six-cylinder engine in torque and throttle response. The result is noticeably powerful acceleration from a standing start--the electrically driven B250e zips from zero to 60 mph in 7.9 seconds. The power supply to the electric drive is delivered via a high-performance lithium- ion battery, which is compactly and safely housed in the "Energy Space" in the underfloor of the vehicle. Such intelligent packaging allows the five-seater to offer interior spaciousness in both the passenger cabin and luggage compartment.

In the interests of optimizing range, the top speed is electronically limited to 100 mph. Depending on driving cycle; the vehicle has a range of 87 miles (EPA). This permits emission-free driving not just in city traffic and on short journeys, but also over longer distances - such as a daily commute. The B250e can be charged from any standard domestic power socket. For a range of 60 miles, the charging time at 240V in the United States is less than two hours.

On the road, the electric drive itself makes its own contribution to a favorable energy balance by converting kinetic energy into electric current during coasting and braking and feeds this energy into the battery. The standard RANGE PLUS package includes a suite of features to further increase the driving range--added insulation of the doors and roof to increase climate-control efficiency, along with an electrically heated windshield and a range-extending charge function. By pressing a button on the console prior to charging, the maximum charge level of the battery will be increased for the next charge cycle. The higher-capacity charge can provide up to approximately 17 additional miles of range.

Inside the passenger cabin, interior underscores the high standards of comfort typical of Mercedes-Benz. High-grade materials and finely textured surfaces, classy touches and precision workmanship make it clear that Mercedes-style electric drive is defined by high standards. The three large round center air vents add a sporty flair that contributes to the overall emotional design idiom of the interior. Positioned above the air vents and seemingly free-floating is the screen for the telematics system.

The instrumentation of the B250e is rounded off by functions that are specific to electric vehicles. One of the striking features is the power display in the right-hand circular instrument. The instrument pointer moves in a clockwise direction from the green zone towards the red zone, when full power is demanded by the driver. It drops back below the zero line when the vehicle is feeding energy into the battery through the recuperation feature.

Dimensions & specifications
Wheelbase: 106.3; overall length: 171.5; width: 71.3; height: 62.5
All vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 132kW electric motor – 177 hp/251 lbs-ft of torque; 28kWh lithium-ion batty pack.
Transmission: single-speed automatic
EPA Fuel Economy: 85 city/82 highway MPGe
Cargo capacity: 51.4 cubic feet

Safety features
Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side impact airbags, dual front/rear head curtain airbags, rear seat side-impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, active brake assist, predictive brake priming, automatic brake drying, hill-start assist, traction control, vehicle stability control, radar-based collision warning system, ATTENTION ASSIST, range plus package, automatic power door locks, alarm system, rear parking assist, first aid kit, LED daytime running lights, rain-sensing windshield wipers, Bluetooth hands free phone system, automatic headlamps, run-flat tires, and tire pressure monitoring system.

Optional safety features include blind spot assist, lane keeping assist, parking pilot, HomeLink garage door opener, navigation system, and HID Xenon headlights.

Warranty
Basic: 4-year/50,000 miles

Pricing
The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2017 Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive starts from $39,900. Destination charges add $925.