Mercedes-Benz E300 BlueTEC Hybrid covers 1,335km on one tank
A 2013 Mercedes-Benz E300 BlueTEC Hybrid saloon has completed a 1,335.76km journey from Cornwall to Scotland without refuelling, demonstrating the efficiency of its diesel-electric powertrain.
A 2013 Mercedes-Benz E300 BlueTEC Hybrid saloon has completed a 1,335.76km (830 miles) journey across the UK on a single tank of fuel, starting at Newquay Cornwall Airport and finishing at Wick Airport in Scotland. The drive, carried out by ex-rally driver Mick Linford, was completed over two days and included a mix of traffic and weather conditions to reflect real-world usage.
Real-world efficiency across the UK
The route began with a full tank at Newquay, where Linford first tested the E300 BlueTEC Hybrid’s performance on the main runway, reaching 100km/h in just over seven seconds and a top speed of 219km/h (136mph). After the initial acceleration run, the car continued north on public roads, encountering heavy traffic and adverse weather typical of British long-distance travel. The E300 BlueTEC Hybrid averaged 4.19 litres per 100km (67.3mpg UK) for the journey, according to Mercedes-Benz figures.
On arrival at Wick Airport, the car’s fuel gauge still showed a quarter tank remaining. Mercedes-Benz calculated that, had the journey continued under similar conditions, the E300 could have theoretically covered more than 1,770km (1,100 miles) before needing to refuel.
Hybrid diesel powertrain details
The E300 BlueTEC Hybrid pairs a 2.1-litre four-cylinder diesel engine with an electric motor, producing a combined output suitable for both efficiency and motorway performance. The hybrid system allows the car to run on electric power alone at low speeds and to supplement the diesel engine during acceleration, reducing overall fuel consumption. The official combined fuel consumption figure for the model is in line with the results achieved on the cross-country run.
Mercedes-Benz’s demonstration aimed to highlight the practical benefits of diesel-electric hybrids for UK drivers, especially those covering long distances. Unlike plug-in hybrids, the E300 BlueTEC Hybrid relies on regenerative braking and the diesel engine to recharge its battery, making it suitable for users without regular access to charging infrastructure.
Context within the Mercedes-Benz range
The E300 BlueTEC Hybrid was launched as part of Mercedes-Benz’s strategy to improve efficiency across its saloon range. The hybrid system was also intended to appeal to company car drivers and high-mileage users seeking lower running costs without sacrificing performance. Other models in the Mercedes-Benz line-up, such as the S500 Plug-in Hybrid, have since expanded the company’s electrified offerings. For more on Mercedes-Benz’s hybrid development, seeMercedes-Benz S500 Plug-in Hybrid Debuts at 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show.
