Mercedes Focuses on 10 More Plug-In Models by 2017

Daimler AG says its primary alternate-powertrain focus will be on plug-in hybrids as its Mercedes-Benz unit prepares to add 8 new plug-in hybrid models over the next two years.

Mercedes has already introduced two such models. The first, a variant of its S-Class large sedan, went on sale last year. A plug-in version of the brand's C-Class sedan and wagon debuted in January. The company is expected to add similar powertrain options for most of cars and SUV/crossovers in its lineup at the C-Class and above.

The S-Class Mercedes plug-in pairs a V-6 bi-turbo engine with an 85-kWh electric motor to make 436 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. The C-Class system uses a 4-cylinder engine and 60-kW electric motor to deliver a combined output of 279 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque. The powertrains for the two models have carbon dioxide emission ratings of 65 and about 48 g/km, respectively, on the New European Driving Cycle.

Both plug-ins feature relatively large batteries that extend all-electric range. The S-Class's 8.7-kWh lithium iron phosphate unit can power the car for 20 miles. The C-Class uses a 6.2-kWh lithium-ion battery with a range of about 19 miles.

Mercedes says its modular and scalable parallel hybrid architecture can be adapted for a wide variety of vehicle sizes, body types and both left- and right-hand drive. Its next model to add a plug-in option will be the GLE crossover due later this year.

The brand also shows a possible plug-in MPV model as its Concept V-ision vehicle earlier this month at the Geneva auto show. Mercedes says the car hints at a potential V-Class of sporty midsize vans.