The upcoming Mercedes-Benz GLB SUV will feature a pure-electric EQ B version alongside petrol, diesel and petrol-electric hybrid powertrains.
The EQ B, sitting underneath the recently revealed EQ C, promises a range of up to 310 miles and will feature an aerodynamically optimised GLB-based body, according to factory insiders.
The new Mercedes-Benz SUV, which goes under the internal codename X247, has been conceived as a direct rival to the Audi Q3, BMW X1 and Lexus NX. It will be priced and positioned above the existing GLA crossover hatchback when it goes on sale in the UK early next year, following a planned unveiling at the Frankfurt motor show in September.
A range of transversely mounted four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines is set to form the basis of the initial GLB line-up. However, it can be confirmed that both plug-in hybrid and pure electric systems will be added to the range shortly afterwards as part of a commitment to launch more than 130 electrified Mercedes-Benz models by the end of 2022.
The GLB is the eighth model to be based around Mercedes-Benz’s MFA II platform and it shares its wheelbase with the China-only long-wheelbase A-Class saloon. At 2789mm, its wheelbase is 60mm longer than those of the other new A-Class models, while a relatively long rear overhang ensures the GLB provides more luggage space than today’s first-generation GLA.
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