Mercedes-Benz has announced an ambitious powertrain roadmap that combines Formula 1-inspired turbocharging with next-generation EV batteries and faster-charging technology. Unveiled on October 27, 2026, the strategy will support more than 40 new and updated models by the end of 2027, spanning hybrids and fully electric cars. At its center, Mercedes-Benz EV Technology is evolving through manganese-rich battery chemistry, scalable 800-volt electrical systems and more efficient electric motors.
Meanwhile, a new electrically assisted turbocharger brings racing-derived engineering to regular petrol-powered models. The approach reflects Mercedes-Benz’s decision to improve combustion efficiency while expanding its electric vehicle portfolio across multiple segments worldwide.
Mercedes-Benz is introducing an F1-derived electric turbo for its GLB hybrid, developing lower-cobalt EV batteries and expanding 800V electric platforms to luxury models. These are separate hybrid and fully electric technologies.
F1 Electric Turbo Comes to Everyday Cars
Developed with Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains in Brixworth, Britain, the 1.5-litre M 252 LS four-cylinder petrol engine uses a 48V electric exhaust-gas turbocharger. A 5kW motor spins the turbo before exhaust pressure builds, reducing lag and improving throttle response.
Key figures include:
- Output: 170kW (228 hbg), plus 23kW (31 kkg) of electric assistance.
- Performance: In the GLB 250 4MATIC, acceleration improves by approximately 0.1 seconds over the previous M 260-powered version.
- Emissions: Mercedes claims roughly 17% lower CO₂ emissions compared with that earlier engine.
- Recovery: The turbo can regenerate up to 2kW from exhaust energy, while twin balance shafts improve refinement.
Importantly, this electric turbo assists a petrol engine; it does not turn the GLB into a battery-only EV.
New EV Batteries Target Cost and Range
A major pillar of Mercedes-Benz EV Technology is battery chemistry. Engineers are combining lithium manganese oxide (LMO) with nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC), increasing manganese content while reducing expensive cobalt and nickel.
The company is also researching lithium nickel manganese oxide (LNMO) cells that eliminate cobalt and use less nickel. Operating at potentially five volts, the chemistry could deliver up to 30% greater driving range than lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries within comparable weight and space. This remains a research target, not a confirmed production-car result.
Mercedes is separately testing solid-state batteries, including an EQS demonstrator that travelled 1,205km without recharging. That achievement should not be confused with an official production-vehicle range rating.
800V EV Architecture Heads to Luxury Cars
Mercedes-Benz EV Technology also includes extending its scalable 800V architecture beyond the CLA and GLC families to future E-Class and S-Class electric models.
Its in-house EDU 2.0 electric drive integrates silicon-carbide inverters and a two-speed gearbox, targeting lower energy losses, improved highway efficiency on long journeys, and high-power DC charging. Actual charging speeds will depend on battery capability and charger availability.
Why the Strategy Matters
The wider Mercedes-Benz EV Technology roadmap uses shared hardware and the updatable Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS) to accelerate development across vehicle lines. By balancing efficient hybrids with advanced batteries and electric drivetrains, Mercedes aims to give buyers powertrain choices while preparing for the industry’s electric future.
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