Mercedes-Benz has embarked on the most intensive new model development program in its history, according to the company’s head of research and development Thomas Weber.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of Mercedes-Benz’s new R&D centre in Beijing this week, Weber confirmed plans for the introduction of 12 all-new Mercedes-Benz models by 2020 – each additional to the German car maker’s existing model line-up and without any direct predecessor.
“Moving forward our plans include the most intensive development cycle Mercedes-Benz has ever undertaken, Weber told Autocar. “It is additional to our regular development activities for the replacement of existing models and will significantly strengthen our position within the market”.
Confirmation of Mercedes-Benz’s new model plans come after a recent announcement in which the company divulged plans to add 10 new plug-in hybrid models to its line-up.
That strategy is part of a technological push aimed at using electrification to dramatically reduce overall fleet consumption in efforts to meet tough EU emission regulations due to come into effect in 2020.
It also follows news that Mercedes-Benz plans to alter the naming of key models with the GLK, M-class and GL set adopt new GLC, GLE and GLS nomenclatures.
Details to the models to be added to Mercedes-Benz’s line-up remain under wraps, although they are set to include models such as the GLE Coupe, S-class Maybach, S-class Maybach Pullman, CLA Shooting Brake, C-class cabriolet, GLC Coupe and possibly a production version of the company’s new G-Code concept car also revealed at the opening of Mercedes-Benz’s new Chinese R&D centre.
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