Carmakers’ research and development departments around the world are focusing most of their attention not so much in performance as they used to in past years, but in improving fuel consumption and lowering CO2 emissions as much as possible.

Mercedes-Benz claims to set new standards in the executive segment with the development of two new hybrid versions of its latest E-Class sedan and estate models, both of which will receive their world premiere at next month’s Detroit Motor Show.

The E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid combines a four-cylinder turbodiesel engine producing 204HP and 500 Nm (368.7 lb-ft) of torque with an electric motor that has an output of 20 kW (27HP) and 250 Nm (184.3 lb-ft). It also features an auto stop/start system, regenerative braking, a pure electric mode and a “sailing” function.

Mercedes says that the E300 BlueTEC Hybrid is the most economical luxury model in the world with an average fuel consumption of just 4.2 lt/100 km (56.0 mpg US) and 109 g/km of CO2. Moreover, even though its power is comparable to that of the E 300 CDI diesel, its fuel economy is 15 percent lower than the E 250 CDI.

The second Mercedes model is the E 400 Hybrid in which the 27HP and 250 Nm electric motor used in the E 300 diesel hybrid is mated with a 306HP and 370 Nm (272.9 lb-ft) V6 gasoline engine. According to the company, average consumption based on the U.S. CAFE standards is 27 mpg (8.7 lt/100 km).

“With these two E-Class models we are now continuing our comprehensive hybrid offensive. said Thomas Weber, Daimler Board Member for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.

“The modular technology opens up a quick way for us to complement other model series with hybrid models. The E-Class hybrids provide a clear reduction in consumption as well as a very impressive driving experience. They represent hybrid motoring at the premium level,” he added.

Mercedes said that the E300 BlueTEC HYBRID is initially planned to be launched on the European market after the Detroit Show, while the E 400 HYBRID will be made available on the American market first, followed by other countries such as Japan and China later in the year.

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