Mercedes previews GLC F-Cell development ahead of Frankfurt show

Mercedes-Benz’s GLC F-Cell, a hydrogen-powered crossover will break cover at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show. But before that, the brand officially revealed more information regarding the testing endured by the world’s first plug-in hydrogen vehicle (two fuel caps), since it was put to the test in 2015. 

The GLC F-Cell has had to endure temperatures ranging from -40 to 60 degrees Celsius and simulated wind speeds of up to 265kmph. Although the specifications of the GLC F-Cell haven’t been disclosed, it couldn’t be very different from the prototype. These had a pair of hydrogen tanks made from carbon fibre (each weighing 4kgs) that were built into the floor of the car. Mercedes-Benz reckons a full refill could take about three minutes, just slightly longer than than the time taken to fill up a petrol or diesel car.

However, what sets the GLC F-Cell apart from the rest of the fuel cell cars is the lithium-ion battery pack mounted at the back of the crossover. This 9kWh battery pack (externally rechargeable, hence two caps!) enables the GLC F-Cell to run purely on electric power for up to 50kms. We’re looking at a combined range of about 500km. 

All the specs and availability details of the GLC F-Cell will be available on 12 September when it debuts at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show.