For the first time, Mercedes-Benz New Zealand is adding a plug-in product to its line up with the introduction later this year of the GLE electric vehicle.
The luxury SUV will be gaining the electric technology just as Volvo and Audi get set to sell plug-in versions of their large SUVs in New Zealand.
Mercedes-Benz NZ managing director, Ben Giffin, had delayed adding a plug-in electric vehicle, such as the S-Class diesel hybrid that was available in Australia, but is now focussing on the worldwide trend - plus bigger demand - of an electric SUV.
New Zealand currently has such SUV plug-ins such as the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and Porsche's Cayenne S E-hybrid.
"We’re delighted to be introducing a GLE plug-in hybrid to local buyers for the first time later this year as part of the Mercedes-Benz plug-in hybrid range," said Giffin.
"While we expect the plug-in hybrid models will carry a small price premium over the standard model variant, we’re confident that New Zealand buyers will enjoy the economic benefits and technological features of this range."
Prices for the GLE start at $104,900 for the GLE 205d while the GLE 63 S is $205,900.
