To meet tightening global fuel-economy standards, Daimler executives in Germany are considering a radical plan: make the flagship S-class a hybrid-only lineup.


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Mercedes-Benz dealer sources tell Automotive News that Stuttgart executives are considering switching all future S-class luxury cars -- including high-performance AMG models -- to full hybrids, offering no models with only internal-combustion engines. The idea is drawing fire from some U.S. dealers, who worry that hybrids are not perceived as true performers in the market. The switch would take place globally with the next-generation S class, which is due in Europe in 2013 and in North America a year later. Only a handful of Mercedes dealers have been briefed on the plan. Those dealers will meet this week with Joachim Schmidt, sales and marketing chief at Mercedes-Benz Cars, at The Masters golf tournament in Augusta, Ga. Mercedes is a sponsor. Dealers say they have been vocal about their opposition to such a switch, which they feel would change the perception of the brand.

All-hybrid S class? U.S. dealers groan

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