Electrifying Speed In New AMG E53 Mercedes Performance Range

The world’s best car manufacturers keep finding new, inventive ways of delivering better performance without losing out when it comes to efficiency. Earlier this year, the Mercedes performance division officially debuted their new AMG 53 range at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Defined as a mild hybrid, this new powertrain differs from a full-on hybrid in that it doesn’t provide full-on electric propulsion; rather, the electric motor supplements the internal combustion engine to provide instant torque and a seamless delivery of power.

Mercedes Mild Hybrid Overview

Still unsure of how a mild hybrid differs from hybrids? There are a few key differences:

• Mild Hybrid Efficiency. You could say that a mild hybrid represents the sweet spot between a powerful but inefficient internal combustion engine and a lower-powered but highly efficient hybrid. Mild hybrids require less battery power than hybrids but are also not quite as thrifty in overall consumption. Mild hybrids can improve fuel efficiency by around 10-15% compared to a vehicle with a regular internal combustion engine only.
• Mild Hybrid Weight Saving. As mild hybrids don’t have battery storage, this powertrain typically weighs less than a full-on hybrid. This has benefits in terms of costs and means that mild hybrids are not as complex to service and repair.

Mercedes AMG 53 Mild Hybrid

As far back as 2005, early forms of mild hybrids began appearing on the market. GM showcased an example with its Silverado, known internally as the Parallel Hybrid Truck (PHT). What makes the latest range of Mercedes AMG 53 models special is that these are performance cars. While BMW has had hybrid technology in its fast i8 for years, that model is not seen as a mass production vehicle on the scale of the new 53’s.

The 53-series models comprise the CLS, the E-Class Coupé, and the E-Class Cabriolet. The mild hybrid powertrain (which Mercedes calls EQ Boost) consists of a 6-cylinder, 3.0-liter engine which features twin-turbocharging (an exhaust gas turbocharger and an electric auxiliary compressor). Producing 435 hp and 384 lb.-ft of torque, the in-line engine’s EQ boost starter-alternator briefly adds another 21 hp and 250 Nm of torque, while providing energy to the 48V electric system. With help from Merc’s 9-speed AMG Speedshift transmission and 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system, there is a lot going on under that sleek body, but you wouldn’t know it from behind the wheel, except when you’re blasting to 60 mph in just 4.4-seconds! Economy estimates show that E53 Coupé will use 8.4-liters of gasoline per 100km (or 62 miles) on the European cycle.

Turbo lag has been eliminated thanks to the instant torque provided by the electric auxiliary compressor, which instantly builds up charge pressure. At higher speeds, the larger exhaust gas turbocharger takes over.

Mercedes AMG 53 Exterior

It’s not all about performance and efficiency, as Mercedes has also given the AMG 53-series models a distinctive look to set them apart. Twin-blade radiator grille’s in chrome used to be the reserve of the V8 models, but they make it onto the AMG 53’s too, which tells you all you need to know about the performance potential of these models. Unique side sill panels, twin tailpipes in glossy chrome, and a spoiler lip on the trunk lid complete the look.

All in all, Mercedes’ decision to create this bold model line displays their commitment to mild hybrid technology, and we’re excited to get behind the wheel of one of these beasts, which will no doubt provide a fantastic platform for some further performance tweaks in our garage!