Daimler chief executive Ola Kallenius has confirmed that Mercedes-Benz is looking to chase after Porsche with performance-focused plug-in hybrids and all-electric models.
In recent years, the car manufacturer has been increasing its focus on electric vehicles, launching the EQC SUV and since confirming the likes of the EQS, EQE Sedan and EQE SUV for production. During a recent interview with German monthly magazine Manager Magazin, Kallenius hinted at the brand’s future range of electrified performance models.
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Mercedes-AMG GT 73 PHEV
“We have a very comprehensive product portfolio, including very attractive sports cars, and sports cars will go electric as well,” he said in an interview with Bloomberg Television. “So stay tuned.” He also told Manager Magazin that the company has its eye set on Porsche with plug-in hybrid performance models, Auto News reports.
One of the new plug-in hybrids being developed by Mercedes is the new AMG GT 73 PHEV. Designed as a direct rival to the Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid, the GT 73 PHEV is expected to feature a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 like other AMG vehicles, but will combine it with an electric motor at the rear axle to give it upwards of 800 hp. Not only will this increase the performance of the luxury sedan, but it could also provide it with a (limited) driving range on all-electric power.
Another key plug-in hybrid model being developed by Mercedes-AMG is the One hypercar, which features an F1-derived, 1.6-liter turbocharged V6 coupled to four electric motors.
