Mercedes-Benz has launched the GLE 500e for the Thai market in two variants. While the ‘Exclusive’ is priced at 4.49 million baht (Rs 85.79 lakh), the ‘AMG Dynamic’ will retail for 4.99 million baht (Rs 95.35 lakh).
Mercedes claims the GLE 500e sips only 3.3 litres of petrol to cover 100km. They also added that the vehicle offers a 30km range when driven only on electric power till speeds of up to 130kmph. Powering the GLE 500e is a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol motor that spins out 333bhp and 480Nm of torque. It works in tandem with an electric motor that makes up to 116bhp and an additional 340Nm of torque, which is impressive to say the least.
Competition for the GLE 500e in Thailand comes from the BMW X5 xDrive40e and the Volvo XC90 T8, but both cost significantly higher at 5.39 million baht (Rs 1.02 crore). Mercedes was able to price the GLE 500e competitively due to the benefits gained from the Thai excise tax structure for low emissions.
Keeping in mind the dynamics of the Indian market, it’s highly unlikely that the GLE 500e could find its way here.
