Mercedes-Benz Might Launch An Electric Sub-Brand To Rival BMW's 'i'

Mercedes-Benz is mulling over to introduce a completely new sub-brand in near future to fend the popularity of its arch-rival BMW’s ‘i’ brand – said Merc's head of Sales & Marketing Ola Källenius as per a report. For the uninitiated, the Bavarian automaker introduced its ‘i’ brand in 2011 in Munich at the BMW Welt. The first vehicle from the sub-brand – the i3 was launched in 2013 while the i8 plug-in hybrid sports car was introduced in 2014. The latter is also available in India and was showcased the 2016 Indian Auto Expo.

Published On May 16, 2016 19:33 IST

Published OnMay 16, 2016 19:32 IST

Last Updated OnMay 16, 2016 19:33 IST

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2014 SLS AMG Coupe Electric Drive

Mercedes-Benz is mulling over to introduce a completely new sub-brand in near future to fend the popularity of its arch-rival BMW’s ‘i’ brand – said Merc's head of Sales & Marketing Ola Källenius as per a report. For the uninitiated, the Bavarian automaker introduced its ‘i’ brand in 2011 in Munich at the BMW Welt. The first vehicle from the sub-brand – the i3 was launched in 2013 while the i8 plug-in hybrid sports car was introduced in 2014. The latter is also available in India and was showcased the 2016 Indian Auto Expo.

2014 SLS AMG Coupe Electric Drive

In January 2016 BMW announced that it has retailed more than 50,000 i-series vehicles worldwide (in a span of two years). It seems that this is enough to jolt the three-pointed star into developing a new sub-electric band. However, the report claims that at present Mercedes-Benz will invest heavily on the development of plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles.

BMW i Vision Future Interaction Concept

By the end of this year, Mercedes-Benz will have three all-electric models - the B-Class and the two Smarts (the company does not retail the Smart in India). Next year the company will launch fuel-cell, zero emission vehicle and will be crafted on the new GLC’s platform. The latter made its Indian debut at the 2016 Indian Auto Expo and is expected to launch in coming months. In addition to this, the automaker will also have ten plug-in hybrid models by the end of next year.

Mercedes Benz GLC

Also Read: Mercedes-Benz GLS to Launch on May 18

Source: Autocar UK

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Raunak

Enthusiastic about cars from a young age, Raunak Awasthi has been leading automobile reportage as the news editor at CarDekho Group. Armed with a Bachelor\'s degree in mechanical engineering, he developed a deep interest in Indian automobile magazines at an early age, treasuring even the black-and-white editions. His unwavering enthusiasm for cars propelled him into the world of motoring journalism, allowing him to immerse himself fully in his passion for all things automotive. To him, this is the best job in the world!Read more

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