Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 hybrid confirmed with 429bhp

Mercedes-AMG CLS53 to be first of several performance hybrids
The next-generation CLS has only been spotted testing in non-AMG guise
New hybrids will sit beneath 63 models; CLS to share its six-cylinder-based powertrain with other models

Mercedes-AMG will introduce a new petrol-electric hybrid line-up to sit below its 63 range, starting with a CLS 53 version that's due at the 2018 Detroit motor show.

The model arrives as part of the next-generation CLS range that's set for reveal at today's Los Angeles motor show. It will use AMG’s 3.0-litre straight-six engine, as used by 43 models, in conjunction with a 50kW electric motor to produce a total of 429bhp.

Along with the power output, AMG boss Tobias Moers confirmed to Autocar in LA that the 53 nomenclature will feature exclusively on AMG models which only use petrol-electric hybrid powertrains. He hinted that an E-Class 53 variant could follow the CLS.

Despite falling short of the current V8-engined CLS 63 S's 577bhp, the hybrid six-pot model’s electric torque-filling ability should ensure performance is much closer.

This would clear space for the AMG GT four-door that’s due in 2018 as an entirely different model, inspired by the GT Concept of the 2017 Geneva motor show. The GT four-door will use a twin-turbocharged V8 engine, borrowed from either the AMG GT or E63, with a hybrid range-topper producing around 800bhp.

The hybrid CLS is expected to come with regenerative braking technology to help replenish its lithium ion batteries when on the move. This technology is already in use elsewhere in Mercedes’ range, and would come as part of 48v electric architecture.

For the AMG E 53, sources have suggested that the electric and six-cylinder hybrid system will be the only drivetrain available on AMG coupé and convertible E-Classes, while larger saloon and estate models will remain as E63s with V8 engines.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

BTCC 2018: Neal wins Diamond Double at Snetterton

Image
Neal clinched victory in the extended Diamond Double race Jack Goff stars in qualifying and race one, while veteran Neal clinches glory in double-length finale Triple British Touring Car champion Matt Neal clinched victory in the special extended Diamond Double race at Snetterton, held to mark the 60th anniversary of the series in his Honda Civic Type R . Rising stars Jack Goff and Ashley Sutton also took race wins at the Norfolk track. Instead of the usual reverse-grid finale, the third race at Snetterton was extended from 12 laps to 20, with double championship points on offer and no success ballast. The race also featured its own separate qualifying session. Picture special: 60 years of the BTCC That was good news for Eurotech driver Goff, who went fastest in both qualifying sessions to claim two pole positions in his Civic Type R. He made the first one count, pulling out a big lead in treacherous wet conditions.  The young guns of the BTCC Behind Goff, reigning champion
Read more

Japan's micro sports cars – Honda and Daihatsu kei cars driven

Image
S660 and Copen are the only kei sports cars in production Kei cars are big in Japan, but do they deliver driving thrills? We sample a pair in Tokyo to find out When the American style of christening storms came to Britain a couple of years ago, it was inevitable that some wag in the Met Office would find a way to undermine the whole concept with an underwhelming name to snigger about.  Storm Brian was the result. It’s a fine English name but perhaps lacking the gravitas of many of those coined overseas. “In terms of impact, we’ve had spray overtopping quaysides,” someone from the Environment Agency told the BBC of Brian’s pummelling of Cornwall. Top marks for not trying, Brian.  While Brian was doing his thing on the other side of the world, Typhoon Lan – now there’s a name – was homing in on southern Japan, bringing with it 140mph winds and a storm that made photographer Stan Papior wish he’d invested in a waterproof camera and jacket.  Look really closely at some of his pictur
Read more