The electric Mercedes-Benz B-Class would arrive thanks to Tesla Motors

Last year, when we learned that Tesla Motors was going to take part with electric technology in some vehicles from Mercedes-Benz (in addition to Smart and Toyota), it was not yet entirely clear which other model could follow the electric A-Class prototypes. Today, we already know that the B-Class could be the next model from the star brand to feature electric technology, which would even replace the A-Class.

According to new reports coming from Germany itself, the new electric B-Class would be on sale in 2014. As for the technology, the engineers at Mercedes have considered using some kind of range extender, but they have ultimately been convinced that a fully electric powertrain from Tesla Motors will be the best solution.

In the past, the Mercedes B-Class has been involved in several alternative technology and mobility projects. We have previously discussed a hydrogen B-Class, the B-Class F-Cell, which was leased to select customers in California (although that was almost two years ago). Next, the people at Mercedes have come up with a similar electric variant, the E-CELL Plus concept (photo), presented last year in Frankfurt as an extended-range vehicle.

For now, the fact that Tesla and Mercedes are collaborating is no indication that the B-Class will be a vehicle sold in Europe. From what some Mercedes executives in the US have said so far, the B-Class would find its way only into the North American market. But the final decision from the German headquarters has not yet been made.

Via | Benz Insider