Mercedes To Introduce E-Class Hybrids In January

Emmanuel P December 22, 2011

Premiering at the Detroit Motor Show in January of next year are Mercedes’ newest green entries in the luxury car segment. Making their debut early next year are the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID and the E 400 BlueTEC HYBRID, which Mercedes claims are one of the most fuel efficient luxury cars in the world.

With its 4-cylinder, 200 horsepower diesel and 20kW electric motor, the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID consumes only 4.2 liters per 100 kilometers. Bear in mind that one of the best-known hybrids, the Prius, claims 3.9 liters/100 km and this is for a commuter car that has no luxury pretensions. The E 300 and E400 HYBRID retain all their luxury and convenience comforts.

For the E 400 BlueTEC HYBRID, Mercedes chose to install a 300 horsepower V6 combined with the same 20kW electric motor found in the E 300 HYBRID. Combined CAFE consumption rating for the E 400 HYBRID is 27 mpg. According to Professor Dr. Thomas Weber, Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development, “The modular technology opens up a quick way for us to complement other model series with hybrid models. With these two E-Class models we are now continuing our comprehensive hybrid offensive.”