Next year, Mercedes plans to launch a diesel hybrid version of the E-Class. It will be named E300 Hybrid and will be based on a 2.2-liter diesel.
Mercedes explores new opportunities in the hybrid segment and intends to become the first manufacturer to offer series production of a diesel hybrid on a premium class car. Confirmation came from Dieter Zetsche, chairman of Daimler Group, who said that the propulsion system will make its debut on the current E-Class, next year.
The new version will be named E300 Hybrid and will be powered by a revised bi-turbo 2.2-liter diesel, currently on E250 CDI, by an electric motor and a set of lithium-ion batteries similar to those already introduced on S400 Hybrid.
The hybrid system will allow the sedan to have a mileage worthy of small class models, the concept being able to run 56 miles with a gallon of fuel. However, the electric motor will be used only to assist the diesel engine and not to run with completely zero emission.
After its debut the current E-Class at the end of 2011, the diesel hybrid will be gradually introduced to Mercedes cars, planning to make his appearance on M-Klasse, G-Klasse, R-Klasse and GLK.
Via Autocar
i have driven turbo diesel for more than 20 years if the MB Hybrid batteries have a long life and the replacement is not expensive then i believe it will be a winer
I have drivem MB turbodiesel for morte than 20 years if the
hybrid model offers lithium batteries that are not expensive to replace then this definitely will be a winer.
I recently tested drive a 335 d bmw dual turbo and it was a fantastic car witg sport like capability and very well to handle
at high speed the only drow back the compactnes of the car
was a little too confining for my taste.
Thank you
Vito
Thank you for the comment. Indeed the cost of the hybrid system is the no 1 issue.
As for interior cabin comfort, I doubt that can ever be an issue with MB..