Mercedes-Benz will be bringing a rather unusual E-Class to the Auto Shanghai 2021: dubbed the E 350 eL, it is a long-wheelbase sedan with a plug-in hybrid powertrain.
The naming seems a bit off, because the model designation ‘E 350 e’ had been used in Europe in 2016–2018 until ‘E 300 e’ replaced it. It looks like the new Chinese model will lack in power compared to the Euro spec, but will make up for it in fuel efficiency and all-electric range.
The European E-Class PHEV ships with a 2.0-liter turbo-four mill and a single electric motor together rated at 320 PS (316 hp / 235 kW) and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque. Rumors claim the Chinese version only has 217 PS (214 hp / 160 kW) and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft).
That said, the E 350 eL should get a larger 15.6-kWh traction battery instead of the usual 13.5-kWh one, which should extend its range from 55 to 70 kilometers on average. Fuel consumption should be closer to 1.4 liters per 100 kilometers, as opposed to 1.9 – 2.2 liters in the Euro spec.
At 5,065 mm long with 3,079 mm between the axles, the car is 142 mm longer with a 140 mm larger wheelbase than the EU version.
Prices are expected to start in the general vicinity of 400,000 Yuan.