Mercedes-Benz Concept V-ision e with PLUG-IN HYBRID

Mercedes is going full force into its plug-in hybrid onslaught. Having already rolled out the S 500 and C 350 plug-in hybrids (now known respectively as S 500 e and C 350 e), and with similar versions of the E-Class, GLC and GLE on the way, Stuttgart has unveiled the Mercedes-Benz Concept V-ision e at the 2015 Geneva show.

As its name (kind of) suggests, the study previews a V-Class plug-in hybrid. It employs the C 350 e's petrol-hybrid system, but has a more powerful electric motor - the 211 hp/350 Nm 2.0 litre turbo four-cylinder joins forces with a 121 hp/340 Nm electric motor, resulting in a combined output of 333 hp and 600 Nm of torque.

This makes possible a 0-100 km/h time of 6.1 seconds (quicker than the top V 250 BlueTEC) and a 206 km/h top whack. Other impressive numbers are a rated fuel consumption of under 3.0 litres per 100 km, CO2 emissions of 71 grams per km and an all-electric range of 50 km if the vehicle is driven at a maximum speed of 80 km/h.

The electric motor is fed by a 13.5 kWh lithium-ion battery that can either be charged through deceleration or an external power source. As with Merc's plug-in hybrids, Hybrid, E-Mode, E-Save and Charge modes are available.

Dressed in "designo titanium alubeam paint," the Mercedes-Benz Concept V-ision e sports side skirts, aero bumpers, a rear spoiler and multi-spoke 20-inch alloys. Inside, you'll find a massive two-section glass roof with Magic Sky Control (controls how much light enters the car), white Nappa leather, Dinamica microfibre and a dark floor made of English walnut.

The concept is fitted with rear executive seats - these offer integrated calf supports, footrests, heating, massage and ventilation, plus the ability to recline up to 49 degrees at the push of a button. There are also two foldable 35 x 35 cm tables and two iPad holders integrated into the driver and front passenger seat backs.

The iPad holders feature an integrated charging interface and two USB charging ports, and can be tilted and rotated 90 degrees. The wide centre console offers several cupholders, a large storage compartment, USB ports, an SD card slot, a five-litre cooler as well as a 220V and a 12V socket.