The E-class Hybrid range revealed by Mercedes Benz

By 2012 Production-spec E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid diesel and E 400 Hybrid petrol to roll out in the global markets. At the Detroit Motor Show Mercedes Benz has taken the wraps of their new E-class Hybrid range ahead of their official debut. A new chapter is marked by these cars in the German carmaker’s history, thanks to the debut of the Hybrid powertrain in the E-class line-up. Mercedes Benz has released information on two models – the E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid diesel and the E 400 Hybrid petrol. 

The E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid diesel uses a 4-cylinder diesel engine that puts out 205 PS of power and 500 Nm of torque. Combined with an electric motor producing 20 kW and 250 Nm, the E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid can achieve a fuel economy of over 23 kmpl (4.2L/100km). 

 The petrol variant, the E 400 Hybrid, uses a V6 engine that produces close of 310 PS of power and 350 Nm of torque. This engine too is mated to the same 20 kW / 250 Nm electric motor, that helps the car achieve an overall fuel economy of over 7 kmpl. 

Both these cars integrate the electric propulsion without compromising on space or safety that their conventional E-class counterparts offer. Furthermore, Mercedes Benz claims that the Hybrid powerplant also contributes to lesser engine noise and a more confortable Start/Stop operation. The Hybrid powertrain is also scalable and easy to implement across the Mercedes Benz range and could therefore be seen on other cars from the carmaker’s stable soon. As for the E-class, the Hybrid variants will roll out in the American and European markets in 2012 with other developing markets following suit.