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
- THIS POST WAS WRITTEN BY:
- Liviu Anca
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..
I have been driving my 2006 E320 CDI and enjoying the car quite a bit. However, I do feel that the cabin is confining… and the interior design and seating is not very comfortable… also, I have found that the car gets wonderful fuel economy on the highway, but on short trips does not do very well (aver. of about 24 MPG). I am very satisfied with the power and agility of the car! I the experience of driving an MB were the same as it was back in the 60′s and 70′s – even in the 80′s… now, it seems that Ford drivers have a better dealership experience than MB drivers!
Dr. Jack