Mercedes-Benz will roll out a hydrogen fuel cell version of the GLC SUV in 2017 according to Dr Thomas Weber, head of Mercedes-Benz R&D, in an interview with Autocar . Called the GLC F-Cell, this will be the German automaker’s second vehicle powered by hydrogen; the first being a B-Class F-Cell.
The GLC F-Cell is touted to have a range of about 500km and can be refueled in 3 minutes. The fuel cell components will take up the spot of the conventional engine while the battery and hydrogen tank will replace the fuel tank. This configuration will not sacrifice any cargo or passenger space and at the same time, is more cost-efficient since an existing platform can be used.
With advancements in fuel cell and battery technology, we can expect these components to become smaller, lighter and cheaper (just take a look at cellphones) making such vehicles less financially risky for automakers. However, expect to find these vehicles in limited markets only due to the lack of refueling infrastructure.
Mercedes-Benz isn’t the only ones dabbling in fuel cell technology. BMW, Audi, Toyota, Honda and Hyundai have pumped money into alternative power as well. But Mercedes-Benz also said it will put electric vehicles on the road by 2018 so it should be interesting to see how consumers choose between these 2 types of alternative power to replace fossil fuels.
Keyword: Mercedes-Benz GLC Powered By Hydrogen Fuel Cell In 2017