New Mercedes GLC F-Cell Is The World’s First Plug-In Hybrid That Can Run On Hydrogen

Mercedes has started delivering the first examples of the new GLC F-Cell to national and regional ministries in Germany, as well as companies such as the German railways, Air Liquide, Linde AG and more.

Other businesses and private customers will also become able to experience the new GLC F-Cell through the Mercedes-Benz Rent programme, starting from spring of 2019.

The new Mercedes GLC F-Cell features a unique plug-in hybrid powertrain that can also run on hydrogen. As a result, the new version of the compact SUV emits no CO2 emissions whatsoever, combining a long range with short refueling times at a hydrogen fuel station.

There are two carbon fiber-encased tanks in the floor that can hold 4.4 kg (9.7 lbs) of hydrogen. The tanks are big enough to give the GLC a hydrogen-based range of 267 miles (430km). In Hybrid mode, the GLC F-Cell can travel up to 298 miles (498km).

The lithium-ion battery pack has a capacity of 13.5kWh, providing energy to the 208hp electric motor. Mercedes claims that a charge from 10 to 100 percent takes around 1.5 hours.

Apart from the aforementioned Hybrid mode, the new Mercedes GLC F-Cell offers three additional operating modes: F-Cell (where the fuel cell provides all the energy needed, keeping the battery’s charge unaffected), Battery (pure electric mode) and Charge (where charging the battery is prioritized).

The new Mercedes GLC F-Cell will only be available in selected metropolitan regions in Germany, such as Stuttgart, Düsseldorf, Berlin, Hamburg, Frankfurt, Munich and Cologne. Both business and private customers will be able to rent the plug-in fuel-cell GLC in either short or long-term plans.