Mercedes-Benz B-Class Model Years and History

The Mercedes-Benz B-Class first appeared as a European model in 2006 as a hatchback smaller than the C-Class. Despite the gasoline-powered B-Class being available in many international markets and even Canada, the model was not included in the United States model line from 2006 to 2013. In 2014, Mercedes-Benz finally added the B-Class to the United States marketplace. However, the vehicle was only offered as an all-electric vehicle. The Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive or B250e was made possible thanks to the German automaker pairing with Tesla Motors. Tesla supplied the Mercedes-Benz hatchback with a 123-kW electric motor producing the equivalent of 177 horsepower. A lithium-ion battery pack provides the B-Class Electric Drive the ability to travel up to 87 miles per charge. Capable of accommodating up to five passengers, the interior of the Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive can be arranged to fit 51.4 cubic feet of cargo. Standard amenities include dual-zone automatic climate control as well as a seven-inch central display. Beyond the 2016 model year, rumors suggest Mercedes-Benz will be dropping Tesla Motors as an electric powertrain supplier in favor of new technology delivering greater range potential.