Daimler

On Wednesday, Mercedes-Benz announced two new hybrid E-Class sedans. The E300 BlueTec Hybrid is equipped with a diesel-electric powertrain, the automaker’s first to be commercialized, while the E400 Hybrid has a more conventional gas-electric hybrid system.

Mercedes-Benz said the diesel hybrid would be available only in Europe, at least initially. But given the presence of BlueTec models in the United States, as well as the automaker’s investments in so-called clean-diesel technology, few would be surprised if the oil-burning model came to North America.

The E300 BlueTec Hybrid combines a 201-horsepower 4-cylinder diesel engine with a 27-horsepower electric motor and can reportedly travel an estimated 100 kilometers on just 4.2 liters of diesel fuel, or roughly 56 miles per gallon. A stop-start function and regenerative braking also contribute to the car’s fuel efficiency. The combined torque of the diesel engine and the electric motor is expected to rival the level of twist produced by the brand’s high-performance V-8s.

The E400 Hybrid, which is scheduled to be delivered to dealerships in the United States in the second half of 2012, combines a 302-horsepower direct-injection V-6 gasoline engine with a 27-horsepower electric motor to achieve a combined fuel economy of about 27 m.p.g. Like the diesel version, it is equipped with a stop-start function and mild regenerative braking.

Both hybrid powertrains were described by Mercedes as modular, an indication that they could potentially be fitted to other vehicle platforms.

“With these two E-Class models we are now continuing our comprehensive hybrid offensive,” said Thomas Weber, a Daimler board member and head of Mercedes-Benz car development. “The modular technology opens up a quick way for us to complement other model series with hybrid models.”

Both cars are scheduled to be formally introduced at the Detroit auto show, where press previews begin on Jan. 9. The price premium for the hybrids over their conventional gas-burning and BlueTec diesel equivalents was not announced, but Mercedes described the extra cost as “only moderate.”