Mercedes-Benz has launched its first GLE plug-in hybrid models in Australia, bringing up to 91km of claimed electric driving range to its premium SUV line-up.
Available in SUV and Coupé body styles, the GLE 450 e 4MATIC combines everyday electric driving capability with a six-cylinder petrol engine for longer journeys, adding another option for organisations considering electrification of executive vehicles.
Both versions feature a 25.7kWh usable battery, delivering a WLTP-tested electric range of 87km for the SUV and 91km for the Coupé. For drivers with suitable travel patterns and regular charging access, that creates scope to complete commuting and local business trips without using the petrol engine.
Charging flexibility for daily use
The GLE 450 e supports 11kW AC charging as standard, allowing drivers to recharge at a suitable home or workplace installation.
An optional on-board DC charger adds support for charging at up to 60kW, providing another way to replenish the battery during the working day or on longer journeys.
For fleet managers, charging access will be central to making use of the vehicle’s electric capability. Matching vehicles to drivers with predictable daily distances and convenient charging will help maximise the proportion of travel completed on electricity.
Mercedes-Benz says the GLE 450 e can operate on electric power at speeds of up to 140km/h, allowing electric driving across urban and freeway conditions within Australian speed limits. Actual range will depend on driving conditions and vehicle use.
Electric assistance meets six-cylinder performance
The powertrain pairs a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder petrol engine with a 135kW electric motor, producing maximum combined outputs of 320kW and 680Nm.
A nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive deliver power to the road, with both body styles capable of accelerating from 0–100km/h in a claimed 5.6 seconds.
The combination gives drivers electric capability for shorter trips while retaining petrol power for travel beyond the battery’s range.
For applications involving trailers, an optional Towbar Package provides up to 3,500kg braked towing capacity. The package requires the optional AIRMATIC suspension package, making specification choices important for fleets with towing requirements.
Driver assistance and connected technology
Standard assistance equipment includes MB.DRIVE ASSIST with Lane Change Assist and Steering Assist. Parking assistance and a 360-degree camera support low-speed manoeuvring.
Inside, the MBUX Superscreen combines three 12.3-inch displays beneath a single glass surface, providing access to vehicle functions, navigation and entertainment.
The Mercedes-Benz Operating System supports over-the-air software updates, while a head-up display places key information in the driver’s field of vision.
Heated front seats, a Memory Package, keyless access and a Burmester 3D surround sound system are also standard.
Both body styles receive AMG Line exterior styling and the Night Package, with 20-inch alloy wheels fitted to the SUV and 21-inch wheels to the Coupé.
A new consideration for executive fleets
The GLE 450 e expands the choice for organisations seeking electric driving capability in a premium executive SUV, particularly where daily journeys can fit within its battery range but longer trips remain part of the role.
The fleet assessment should start with actual journey distances, charging availability and how consistently drivers will plug in. Monitoring electric kilometres and petrol consumption would then help establish how effectively the vehicle performs in its assigned duties.
