Mercedes to Spread Plug-In Hybrids Across Lineup

Mercedes is planning to sell just about every vehicle that it makes with the option of a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

“We will have a plug-in hybrid version of every volume model,” R&D chief Thomas Weber told Automotive News. The next models to receive electrified powertrains will be the current C-class, the next E-class and replacement models for the GLK-class and the M-class. By 2020, the brand’s smaller vehicles, like the CLA-class and GLA-class will also offer plug-in hybrid power.

The German brand has already shown off the S550 plug-in hybrid that achieves 2.8 l/100 km (about 84 mpg) on the European cycle. It uses a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine with 329 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque paired with an electric motor generating 114 hp and 251 lb-ft of torque.

Details on the upcoming C350 plug-in have also come to light, revealing it will use a smaller 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an 80-hp electric motor. All-electric driving range is said to be about 20 miles, while the fuel economy rating will surely be even better than the S550 plug in.

All of the different plug-in hybrid models will get their hybrid bits from a common parts bin. Both four- and six-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines can be mated to the plug-in hybrid setup which can also support all-wheel drive.