Mercedes to add C and E class hybrids by 2011 in U.S.; 12,000 smart EVs in four years
Mercedes Benz S400 BlueHybrid
Next year's arrival of the S400 BlueHybrid appears to be just the first stage of a massive move to hybridazition of the brand's lineup. The ML450 is scheduled to get a Two-Mode hybrid late next year, pending resolution of issues with battery supplier Cobasys. A new generation of the high-volume mid-sized E-class arrives sometime in 2009 and Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche reportedly told media in Paris last week that it, too, will get the hybrid treatment. The smaller C-Class that debuted in 2007 gets a refresh in 2011 that is also expected to add an electric motor into the drivetrain package. The C and E are both likely to use the smaller, less expensive mild hybrid system that goes into the S rather than the larger Two-Mode. Finally, Zetsche had good news for EV fans when he said the company expects to be producing 12-15,000 electric Smarts per year starting in 2012.
Gallery: Mercedes-Benz S400 BlueHybrid
[Source: eGMCarTech]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
scooter 2:49AM (10/08/2008)
Good news!
But a brand like Mercedes should lead the movement of hybrids. Now they are following the steps of toyota.
http://1000scooters.com
Reply
dave b 7:23PM (10/07/2008)
I was hoping for higher volume and sooner for the Smart EVs. In 4 years I'll have a much bigger choice... Why not fast track their concept--which is already running mules and get this to market before even the Volt?
Reply
Peekoyle 8:21AM (10/08/2008)
Yeah, 2012!? For a Smart ED?
Mercedes Benz is dragging it heels if you ask me.
Reply
darius 1:15PM (10/08/2008)
"producing 12-15,000 electric Smarts per year starting in 2012." I'm willing to bet that this is for Europe sales, US coming in a couple years after that...