Mercedes To Launch A Diesel Hybrid E-Class In 2011

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