Mercedes Teases High-Performance Hybrid Engine with Diesel Efficiency
Mercedes is developing a new four-cylinder engine for the CLA, which will have multiple power outputs. Karsten Krebs, the powertrain lead engineer, hinted that the initial three power options are just the beginning. There may be more powerful versions in the future.
The engine is still undergoing homologation ahead of the CLA’s launch next year. Mercedes has not released expected MPG figures yet. However, Krebs mentioned that the hybrid system could achieve fuel efficiency similar to diesel engines.
The current CLA with a 2.0-liter diesel can reach around 55 mpg, and testers have noted it is easy to exceed 60 mpg during highway driving. If the new M252 engine performs similarly, it could be one of the top petrol engines in terms of efficiency.
How does the hybrid system in the new CLA’s engine improve fuel efficiency and driving dynamics?
Interview with Karsten Krebs, Powertrain Lead Engineer, on Mercedes’ New Four-Cylinder Engine for the CLA
Date: [Insert Date]
Location: [Insert Location]
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Karsten. Can you provide an overview of the new four-cylinder engine being developed for the 2024 CLA?
Karsten Krebs: Absolutely! We are excited to introduce our new four-cylinder engine, designated the M252. It will come with multiple power outputs initially, with three distinct options ready for launch. However, this is just the beginning—there are possibilities for more powerful versions down the line.
Interviewer: That sounds promising! What can you tell us about the engine’s efficiency and performance, especially regarding fuel economy?
Karsten Krebs: While we’re still undergoing homologation, we haven’t released exact MPG figures yet. However, I can share that the hybrid system we’ve integrated is designed to achieve fuel efficiency comparable to diesel engines. The current CLA with a 2.0-liter diesel engine boasts around 55 mpg, with real-world testing often exceeding 60 mpg on highways. If the M252 engine mirrors this performance, it could be one of the leading petrol engines in terms of efficiency on the market.
Interviewer: Can you elaborate on the hybrid capabilities of this new engine?
Karsten Krebs: Certainly. The hybrid system includes a 27bhp electric motor that allows the car to operate solely on electric power at speeds up to 62 mph. This electric motor draws energy from a compact 1.3 kWh 48V battery situated under the front passenger seat. One of the standout features is that the battery can recharge during braking at rates up to 25 kW, which is an innovative approach to energy management.
Interviewer: That’s quite impressive! How does this hybrid system enhance the driving experience?
Karsten Krebs: Using the electric motor to start the engine eliminates the need for a traditional starter motor. This design contributes to a remarkably smooth start-stop experience, which drivers may hardly notice. The seamless transition between electric and combustion power not only enhances comfort but can also improve overall driving dynamics.
Interviewer: Thank you, Karsten. Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers about the upcoming CLA and this new engine?
Karsten Krebs: We are truly excited about the future of the CLA with the M252 engine. We believe that our advancements in hybrid technology will not only meet but exceed expectations in both performance and efficiency. Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to launch!
Interviewer: Thank you for your insights, Karsten. We look forward to seeing the new CLA on the roads next year!
Karsten Krebs: Thank you for having me!
The hybrid system includes a 27bhp electric motor that can drive the car alone at speeds up to 62 mph. This motor draws power from a 1.3 kWh 48V battery located under the front passenger seat. The battery can recharge during braking at rates of up to 25 kW.
Using the electric motor to start the engine means the CLA no longer requires a traditional starter motor. This feature allows for a smoother start-stop experience that drivers may hardly notice.