We’ve already gotten a good look at the updated Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and even the longer, more luxurious Maybach version. The standard model is likely to be introduced in India at the end of 2026 or early 2027, but we have recently learnt there will be a new addition to the model range at the time of launch. Alongside the petrol S 450 and diesel S 350d, Mercedes-Benz India will launch its first ever plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model, which will come in the form of the S 450e with EQ Hybrid Technology.
- S 450e PHEV likely to be locally assembled in India
- Gets 100km of electric-only range from a 22kWh battery
- Expected to launch alongside the upcoming facelifted petrol and diesel versions
Mercedes S 450e more powerful than S 450 petrol
Though they share a similar model designation, the S 450e hybrid packs in more performance, as well as the benefit of all-electric driving capability. At their core is the same 2,999cc ‘M256 Evo’ turbo-petrol engine, updated to meet Euro 7 emissions norms, but thereafter they differ.
While the S 450 uses a 48V mild-hybrid system that can provide a temporary boost of additional power and torque under hard acceleration, the S 450e uses a plug-in hybrid system that incorporates a large 22kWh battery that continuously alternates between electric and combustion power during driving.
On its own, the engine’s outputs of 326hp and 540Nm are lower than in the pure petrol version, but paired with a 120kW electric motor, the S 450e has total system outputs of 435hp and 680Nm. This allows it to accelerate from 0-100kph in 5.7sec, which is slower than the petrol S 450’s 4.9sec. But where the S 450 uses 4Matic AWD, the S 450e is rear-drive only and, thanks to the battery pack, weighs a portly 2,465kg.
Likely to be a bridge model for buyers uncertain about EVs
What will likely be more of a draw, however, is the 100km of electric-only range afforded by the 22kWh battery, and the ability to top it up via a plug. This means owners buying the car for primarily intra-city use could potentially use it as an EV only, with the safety net of a petrol engine for longer journeys.
For more traditional limousine buyers who were thus far on the fence about moving to an EV, this could serve as the perfect bridge product, allowing them to sample silent, zero-emissions motoring and also the convenience of home charging, without the hassle of range anxiety.
For Mercedes specifically, it also addresses those customers who wanted electric mobility, but for whom the EQS EV didn’t feel as luxurious as an S-Class. In fact, word is that the EQS limousine facelift will not be launched in India.
Could be locally assembled at Chakan
Mercedes-Benz India currently assembles its long-wheelbase S-class (V223), extra-long-wheelbase Maybach S-Class (X223) and the EQS electric sedan (V297), among many others, at its plant in Chakan, Maharashtra. In order to make sure the PHEV’s prices don’t disrupt its model hierarchy too much, it stands to reason the brand would look at assembling the S 450e here too.
It is expected to be launched alongside the petrol and diesel variants, and positioned slightly above them, yet below the Maybach S-Class. Other luxury PHEVs that have gone on sale in India previously include the Volvo XC90 T8, Porsche Cayenne S e-hybrid and the previous-gen BMW 740Le. Globally, the S-Class has been offered with a PHEV powertrain since the previous W222 generation, but now that hybrids are finally seeing some traction in India, now might be the perfect time for Mercedes to introduce such a powertrain.
Suraj Viswanathan
Glenn Noronha
Dhruv Dhaka
Dipan Sur
Uday Singh
