After revealing the pre-production model at the Frankfurt Motor Show last year, Mercedes has finally revealed all the details of the GLC F-Cell’s production versions before it starts handing out deliveries. The GLC F-Cell uses a unique plug-in hybrid setup combined with fuel-cell technology. As a result of this, the GLC F-Cell can run on both, electricity and hydrogen.

How Does the Mercedes GLC F-Cell Work?

This SUV has four operating modes: Hybrid, F-Cell, Battery, and Charge. In Hybrid mode, the vehicle draws power from both energy sources. In the Battery mode, the SUV runs purely on the electrical charge without using the fuel-cell system. Charge mode means that charging the battery is the main priority. An energy recovery function is active in all operating modes.

Does the Mercedes GLC F-Cell Have Decent Range?

Interestingly, the tank can be filled in less than three minutes, which is equivalent to filling fas for regular internal combustion engines. When switched to the all-electric mode, the GLC F-Cell can drive for up to 31.7 miles on a full charge. Compared to the pre-production model, both estimates are slightly improved.

How Long Does it Take to Fill up and Charge the Mercedes GLC F-Cell?

The GLC F-Cell features a lithium-ion battery that has a capacity of 13.5 kWh that serves as an energy source for the 208-horse electric motor. The battery can be charged via a 7.4kW onboard charger at a standard household socket, a wall box, or a public charging station. The compact fuel cell system is housed in the engine compartment and installed at the same mounting points as a conventional engine. As for the motor and battery, they are installed in the rear of the GLC F-Cell.

The Mercedes GLC F-Cell is Offered as a Lease Only

Mercedes will start delivering the GLC F-Cell at the end of this month. Initially, the German automaker will be focusing on the major cities in its home country like Berlin, Hamburg, Frankfurt, Stuttgart, Munich, Cologne and Düsseldorf. These cities already have hydrogen filling pumps. However, a customer cannot purchase the GLC F-Cell outright. Instead, Mercedes will offer it as a full-service rental model that includes all maintenance and possible repairs, as well as a warranty package.

Since Mercedes wants to help the expansion of hydrogen filling stations, it has partnered with H2 Mobility. The long-term objective is to have a network with up to 400 hydrogen refueling stations so that this technology gets implemented in more cars. Other places in contention for similar infrastructure projects include the rest of Europe, the United States, and Japan.

Conclusion

Pricing for the Mercedes GLC F-Cell have not yet been released. Perhaps, we will know when the SUVs start getting delivered. What are your thoughts on the Mercedes GLC F-Cell? Let us know in the comments section below.

Further reading

Read our full review on the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC F-Cell.

Read our full review on the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class.