Mercedes-Benz is all prepared to showcase its two hybrid E-Class sedans, the E 400 Hybrid and the E 300 Bluetec Hybrid at the upcoming Detroit Auto Show 2012. The E 300 Bluetec Hybrid is the car maker’s first diesel-electric vehicle that has already been displayed at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2010.
Thomas Weber, a Daimler board member and head of Mercedes-Benz car development said, “With these two E-Class models we are now continuing our comprehensive hybrid offensive.” He further added that, “The modular technology opens up a quick way for us to complement other model series with hybrid models.”
The E 400 is powered by a single electric motor between a 302 hp, 3.5-litre V-6 engine and a tailored version of the seven-speed automatic transmission. The E 300 Bluetec Hybrid is equipped with a 201 hp, 2.1-litre turbodiesel engine which is capable of producing torque of 500 Nm.
Both, the E 300 Bluetec Hybrid and the E 400 use a 0.8-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack, which is placed in the trunk. Furthermore, the latest diesel hybrid from Mercedes-Benz has a top speed of 150 mph and is rated at 0-60 mph in 7.5 seconds.
Though the price of the cars was not announced, however, the company described the extra cost as ‘only moderate’. The E 400 is likely to be available in the U.S. later this year as a 2013 model.
The North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) popularly known as the Detroit Auto Show will begin from 9th January, 2012 in Detroit.
