The W242 —
Electric Pioneer Urban Mobility
The W242 B-Class Electric Drive represented Mercedes-Benz's early commitment to battery-electric propulsion in the premium compact segment. This forward-thinking electric MPV offered practical family transportation with zero-emission capability during an era when EV infrastructure was still developing.
The W242 combined a 100 kW electric motor with a 36 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, delivering approximately 200 km of NEDC range and 250 Nm of instant torque. This battery-electric variant of the B-Class W242 retained the spacious five-seat MPV layout while pioneering electric performance in the premium compact market.
Early electric vehicles from premium manufacturers are gaining recognition among collectors as significant automotive milestones and investments in sustainable technology history. The W242 Electric Drive represents a crucial bridge between conventional powertrains and modern EV platforms, with values stabilizing as enthusiasts appreciate its historical importance.
Get the W242 Buyer's Guide
Free PDF — what to look for, what to avoid, current market values.