Personal Experience with an Electric Mercedes B-Series

Electric vehicles are becoming more popular as people seek to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on fuel costs. In this article, I will share my experience with a 2014 Mercedes B-Series electric, a unique vehicle that combines the body design of Mercedes with the driveline technology of Tesla.

Overview of the Vehicle

The 2014 Mercedes B-Series electric is a unique vehicle that stands out among other electric cars available in the market. Designed by Mercedes with an electric driveline provided by Tesla, this vehicle combines the luxury and reliability of a Mercedes with the advanced technology of Tesla. Despite being five years old with just 25,000 miles, this vehicle has provided me with exceptional performance and reliability.

Reliability and Cost Savings

One of the most notable benefits of my electric Mercedes B-Series is its reliability. Unlike my previous diesel MB, which required regular maintenance that could cost upwards of $600, my electric vehicle has only required an annual service inspection costing around $140. In fact, the dealership held a maintenance event, which was typically cheaper and included many of the required services. This significant cost reduction has saved my family a considerable amount of money over the years.

As a retiree, this vehicle perfectly meets my needs for local travel and hauling within a 50-mile radius. Since my recourse period has expired, I've opted to perform 20,000-mile services rather than an annual inspection. Although Mercedes recommends annual services, for the guarantee, the real interval is 20,000 miles. By following this schedule, I can ensure that the vehicle remains in optimal condition without incurring unnecessary expenses.

Feature Highlights

One of the features that I find particularly beneficial is the regenerative braking system. This system helps to recover energy and extend the range of the vehicle. Another useful feature is hill hold, which helps to prevent the vehicle from creeping forward on steep inclines, even at a stoplight. This feature is especially useful for those who rely on the vehicle for local trips.

The Tesla connection provides additional features such as parking assist, backup camera, and HVAC operation even when the car is off. These features make my life easier, whether I’m commuting to the office or running errands around town. I can keep the car cool or warm while going into the store, which is a convenient and practical feature that I highly appreciate.

Feature Wish List

While the vehicle has many features that I enjoy, there are some that I wish it had. For example, a touch screen interface, which would allow me to easily access information and perform operations. The Apple Play function, which would enable me to play music directly from my phone, would also be a welcome addition. Another feature I would like to have is distance holding, which would keep the vehicle at a set speed when driving at a constant pace. Additionally, I would like to have enhanced braking when engaging cruise control. More comprehensive maps and navigation options, other than Garmin, would also be beneficial. Lastly, the ability to perform over-the-air updates to the software would be a significant advantage, similar to what I experience with my Tesla vehicles.

Conclusion

Overall, my experience with the 2014 Mercedes B-Series electric has been positive. This vehicle has provided me with a reliable and efficient mode of transportation, meeting my needs for local travel and hauling within a 50-mile radius. While it has a few features that could be improved, the long-term benefits have far outweighed any shortcomings. For anyone considering an electric vehicle, I would highly recommend giving the Mercedes B-Series a look. It is a well-built, reliable, and sustainable choice that is worth considering.