Mercedes-Benz will be launching its 7th and 8th plug-in hybrid models — the GLC Coupé 350e 4MATIC and the E350e — sometime later this year, according to a new press release from Daimler.
These plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) models will join the company’s others — including the S500e; the GLE 500e 4MATIC; the GLC 350e 4MATIC; and the C350e (all 3 versions).
The new Mercedes E350e will utilize the 9G-TRONIC PHEV transmission and the company’s newest electric motor. Notably, the model will also be the company’s first hybrid with a trailer-towing capacity of up to 2,100 kilograms.
Here are further details from the press release:
Developed together with Bosch as part of the EM Motive joint venture, the electric motor was specially designed for the 9G-TRONIC plug-in-hybrid transmission. In combination with the likewise new and much more efficient power electronics, it was possible to further increase output and torque to 65 kW and 440 Nm respectively. This is 5 kW more output and 100 Nm more torque compared to the preceding system in the C350e. This high level of torque is instantly available from stationary, and allows tremendous agility when pulling away, plus sporty driving characteristics.
Further improvements to the intelligent operating strategy also increase the efficiency of the hybrid. The new thermal management links the vehicle’s cooling system with the navigation data, and predictively balances out temperature peaks by advance cooling. The recuperation function was also improved in the E350e: energy recovery not only sets in when approaching a slower-moving vehicle, but also before entering speed limits or on downhill gradients. Depending on the driving profile, the business saloon is able to cover 18 up to 33 km with no emissions, consuming just 2.1 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (NEDC).
In related news, a refresh of the Mercedes S500e is slated to be released in 2017 — one that will feature the company’s newly improved battery technology — reportedly, allowing the company to fit 13.3 kWh of capacity in the same space as earlier models.
Furthermore, Daimler will be releasing fully electric versions of the Smart ForFour and Cabrio this year, first in the US and then later in Europe.