Mercedes has specified that all new C-Class cars will be electrified and feature a 4-cylinder engine.
The new C 63 PHEV will also be AWD – a first.
Mercedes-Benz is working on many fronts to electrify its massive lineup. They are working hard on their new EQ family of full-EVs, but that’s far from all. Of the many current and upcoming new models to be electrified, Mercedes-Benz has announced that the new W206 C-Class will drop all petrol engines over 4 cylinders in size and receive some form of hybrid assistance. And this also applies to the soon-to-arrive Mercedes-AMG C 63.
As part of Mercedes-Benz’s E PERFORMANCE drivetrain strategy, the next AMG C 63 will see its V8 swapped out for the A 45/CLA 45’s turbocharged 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine with a tune upgrade, to the tune of over 440 horsepower. To it will be assigned a complex hybrid system different from most currently. Instead of seeing the electric motor (developed exclusively by AMG) being installed in the transmission (an AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT-9G), it is mounted directly on the rear axle.
This setup creates many advantages such as enabling maximum torque immediately. As well, its positioning better distributes the weight front and back. Relatedly, the rear electronically controlled differential can not only split the power to each wheel but in the event of wheel slip, with the electric motor, power is sent forward thanks to the still-mechanical connection between the axles.
Finally, the rear axle will also sport an automated two-speed transmission that will ensure a spread from high wheel torque for improved acceleration to continuous performance at higher speeds. The “shift” takes place at 140 km/h. We’re thinking the next C 63 will have a “Drift” mode…
Mercedes-Benz E PERFORMANCE | Photo: Mercedes-Benz
The rear electric motor will add a sustained 94 horsepower with a peak of 201 (for up to 10 seconds) under heavier demands. Assuming the math is correct, 440 + 200 equals well over 600 horsepower. The onboard 6.1 kWh battery will deliver a certain amount of EV range however it is not specified at this time. The battery is heavily cooled ensuring consistent optimal conditions.
The result of all this is a next-generation Mercedes-AMG C 63 that will be fast. It will also be heavier as the battery alone adds an extra 89 kg. The 4-pot is lighter than the V8 however the electric motor and 2-speed rear transmission are extras over the battery. Mercedes-AMG also promises that it will sound like an AMG.
