Mercedes-Benz plans all-new electric model

The German manufacturer is on the verge of unveiling an electric concept vehicle with a driving range of between 400 and 500 kilometres.

By Andrew Frankel, Autocar UK

16 Sep 2015

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The SLS AMG Electric Drive spelled out Mercedes-Benz's electric ambitions.

Mercedes-Benz will launch an all-new electric vehicle within a year, senior sources at the company have confirmed.

Speaking to Autocar UK at the Frankfurt Motor Show, Mercedes engineering boss Dr Thomas Weber said the new car would have a range of “between 400 and 500km [248 and 310 miles]” thanks to lithium batteries with double the energy density of current components.

Weber would not be drawn on size or positioning but said preliminary details would be released “within the year”.

The news comes off the back of rivals Audi and Porsche both unveiling fully electric concept cars that preview expected production models.

It seems highly likely that Mercedes could follow its compatriots - not to mention electric pioneer Tesla – into the luxury saloon or SUV EV market, building a large car that has enough room to accommodate a battery pack and is pitched at a price point that’s high enough to justify electric vehicle costs without being prohibitive.

Mercedes has previously rolled out EVs such as the SLS AMG Electric Drive and B-Class Electric Drive.

Also read: Mercedes-Benz reveals Concept IAA at Frankfurt show