Mercedes-Benz is set to become the first car brand in Thailand to offer a diesel-electric power train in a mainstream model.
The first model to get the super-frugal hybrid is the E300 Bluetec hybrid executive sedan, combining a 27-horsepower electric motor with the commonplace 204-hp, 2.1-litre diesel-turbo engine, as used in the regular E250 CDI.
With average fuel economy of 23 kilometres per litre, the E300 will be the most economical car in its class - beating today’s champion, the BMW 520d, and its rating of 19 km per litre.
Executives of Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) confirmed the Thai hybrid plan but refused to say when the first car will go on sale.
They stressed that from now on, the British and Thai markets will get new models at the same time.
The E300 hits Britain next month, according to media reports.
Due to the 10 per cent excise tax in Thailand for hybrid-powered vehicles (not over 3,000cc), Mercedes will likely price the E300 at 4 million baht _ roughly the same as the E250 CDI, which faces a higher 35 per cent excise.
The hybrid application is set to follow in the M-class sport-utility vehicle and technically compatible with the C, CLS and S classes.
The decision to bring out new models as quickly as possible in the Thai market means the all-new A-class will be launched at year-end to attract the younger generation.
The Thai Mercedes office will initially import the A250 equipped with a 211-hp, two-litre petrol-turbo engine and seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission in classy Style and racy Sport trims.
Prices are set to exceed 2 million baht, although that could change if a local assembly plan for next year meets its schedule.
Mercedes is fighting hard against sales opportunities lost to the Thai grey market and hopes the speedy product launches will rectify the problem.
Independent importers source right-hand-drive Mercedes models from Britain.
One executive said the E300 and A-class represent significant milestones for the brand’s long history in Thailand, as one is taking the technology game to the next level while the other is capturing a completely new type of Mercedes buyer.
BMW, Honda, Lexus, Porsche and Toyota also offer hybrid options in their Thai line-ups, albeit with electric assistance yoked to less-efficient petrol engines.
