Mercedes-Benz is shifting gears and going with the hybrid flow, reversing its current emphasis on diesel over hybrid-drive technology. "We won't develop any future models without a hybrid option," DaimlerChrysler Chairman Dieter Zetsche told the German publication Auto Motor und Sport. Zetsche said customer demand prompted the switch, which is a major departure from Mercedes' course up to now.
While Zetsche — with one eye doubtless fixed on Toyota — was playing his cards close to the vest, he made it clear that Mercedes' first hybrid systems will be "mild hybrids," with a gasoline or diesel engine getting extra power from an electric motor to improve performance, fuel consumption, and emissions. Subsequent models — which insiders say are still two years away — would offer full hybrid systems à la Prius that can run for some period with zero emissions.
"We will combine our know-how with BMW in a bid to accelerate development," said Zetsche. "With a mild hybrid we can obtain up to 70 percent of the effect offered by a full hybrid with just 30 percent of the effort."
Mercedes-Benz Ramps Up Hybrid Plans [Edmunds Inside Line]
