MERCEDES GLE 450E HAS HUGE PHEV RANGE AND INSANELY FAST DC FAST CHARGING

EV Channels Review

The Mercedes GLE 450e 4MATIC is put to the test, focusing on its plug-in hybrid electric capabilities. The reviewer highlights its impressive DC fast charging performance, reaching up to 62 kW and completing a 0-100% charge in approximately 30 minutes, significantly outperforming many other PHEVs. The real-world electric range also exceeded expectations, with the highway test yielding 58 miles and the city test reaching 67 miles, both well above the EPA's 40-mile rating. Positives include the smooth ride, excellent driver assistance systems, and the intuitive accelerator pedal design that manages electric and combustion engine engagement. However, the reviewer notes the clunky nature of the electric motor being placed before the transmission and criticizes the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine as being 'crunchy' when it engages, contrasting it with smoother six-cylinder options in competing models. The reviewer also questions the necessity of DC fast charging for PHEVs, suggesting it should be AC charging only unless the vehicle has a very long electric range, and advises responsible usage to avoid blocking chargers for BEVs.