Gasoline-electric hybrid vehicles are in high demand in the US and are popping up nearly every product segment. But diesel-electric hybrids are still unheard of in the US – until now. Mercedes-Benz has just confirmed the release of the Mercedes-Benz E300 BlueTec Hybrid which is due next year. It will be the first diesel-electric hybrid vehicle.
Powered by a 2.2L 4-cylinder twin-turbocharged diesel engine from the E250 CDI the Mercedes-Benz E300 BlueTec Hybrid will yield more than 47 miles per gallon. Utilizing a combination of lithium-ion batteries and an electric-motor, similar to the components found within the S400 Hybrid, the system is a modular mild hybrid system rather than a two-mode system like the one found in the ML450.
Mercedes retailers are excited for the availability of such a fuel-efficiency model. MBZ Pittsburgh expects that the combination of diesel fuel and electric motors will deliver the ultimate balance of efficiency and performance. But other automakers are also developing similar diesel fuel strategies to maximize MPG. Mazda Pittsburgh points out that Mazda is also preparing to bolster its diesel and hybrid offerings in the U.S. These measures are necessary to meet consumer demand as well as looming federal emissions regulations. When the Mercedes diesel-electric hybrid hits the streets, dealers’ service departments will be ready to provide expert car repair, Salisbury Mercedes said.
Consumers should see the Mercedes-Benz E300 BlueTec Hybrid in showrooms in early 2011.
* * *
Read more Mercedes-Benz news on this blog.
You must log in to post a comment.