FRANKFURT -- Mercedes-Benz will soon start handing over its latest fuel cell car to fleet customers to keep a toe-hold in a promising technology that has been hampered by the difficulties of storing and refueling hydrogen.

The Mercedes-Benz GLC F-Cell model combines a fuel cell with a battery that can be charged via a wall socket, easing driver concerns about refueling. For now, the automaker will rent out the vehicles at 799 euros ($917) a month in Germany, with drivers returning the car at the end of the full-service contract. The real-world test will help refine the technology, Mercedes parent Daimler said. As a next step, Mercedes plans to offer the vehicle in Japan.

FRANKFURT -- Mercedes-Benz will soon start handing over its latest fuel cell car to fleet customers to keep a toe-hold in a promising technology that has been hampered by the difficulties of storing and refueling hydrogen.

The Mercedes-Benz GLC F-Cell model combines a fuel cell with a battery that can be charged via a wall socket, easing driver concerns about refueling. For now, the automaker will rent out the vehicles at 799 euros ($917) a month in Germany, with drivers returning the car at the end of the full-service contract. The real-world test will help refine the technology, Mercedes parent Daimler said. As a next step, Mercedes plans to offer the vehicle in Japan.

Are you a journalist or a creative personality? Do you want to share information with the world? Then our new project will be perfect for you to express your ideas and concepts.