The new BlueTEC HYBRID version of the E 300 derives its genes from the E 250 CDI. The E 300 though as a higher output and a better fuel consumption.

The Mercedes-Benz diesel hybrid will roll out in Europe as an Estate and a Saloon starting the thrid quarter of this year. Later on Daimler will bring in the E 400 hybrid to the US market, China and Japan using a V6 petrol engine. Back in 2009 the car manufacturer released the S 400 Hybrid.

The concept of modular hybrid does not need any changes on the body shell so it can be used in other vehicle models. There will also be no problem in varying markets as there will be versions for the left or right hand drive and vehicles using diesel or gas.

For the E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid, the carmaker will use a 4-cylinder 2.2L diesel powerplant that gives out 204 horsepower with a torque of 184 lb-ft and an electric motor giving out 20kW. The hybrid setup is an evolution of the setup of the S 400 Hybrid. The electric motor can also be integrated with the transmission.

The electric motor used is a three-phase magneto motor with internal rotor that generates 20kW and a max torque of 250Nm operating on 120 volts. This motor assists the conventional engine when the vehicle accelerates when in boost or effect mode while it is also used to recover braking energy when in alternator mode.

On the road, the hybrid E 300 can be compared to its CDI sibling but with a 35% lower fuel consumption and way better CO2 emission.

The brand new Mercedes is a symbol of its evolution from the old CLK model not only in its line name but also in its handling and structure that clearly support E-class sedan revealed only recently.

The luxury car company aims to drive the E-class coupe farther up from the present CLK model. This move allows Mercedes room to introduce the C-class coupe at the lower end of their line.

The E-class coupe’s exterior is inspired by the E-class sedan. Both models have the outstanding grille design, greenhouse minus the pillars, and frameless doors. The E-class coupe gets twin trapezoid-shaped headlights and a clamshell hood. Mercedes said that the arch-flames at the rear wheels represent the style of the Ponton Mercedes that was famous in 1953. Although its interior is quite similar with the E-class sedan, the E-class coupe places its emphasis in quality posh materials and the latest automobile gadgetry like the COMAND controller.

Ironically, the E-class coupe is more advanced that its predecessors but it bears more of the classic Mercedes elegance. Likewise, it will serve as the basis for the much-awarded E-class convertible that will make its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September. The E-class convertible is assumed to reach the US market in 2010.