Mercedes’ image, especially in Europe, is associated with the diesel engine, with which the brand has been intrinsically linked since the late 1930s – the Three Pointed Star was one of the pioneers in passenger car diesels.

Now, though, a report published over on Autoblog suggests the automaker is looking to slowly ditch diesels, then follow Lexus and only offer hybrids as the fuel saving alternative.

The source quoted “a product planner from Mercedes-Benz” with whom they spoke in Austria. They add that this trend is already visible among Mercedes concepts, very few of which have pushed diesel tech in recent years, and almost all showing some form of electrification.

In other news, the same report also announces the imminent arrival of another compact crossover from Mercedes. No details were spared, but apparently it won’t be available all around the world, although being a crossover it will definitely reach the US and Europe.

It too will apparently use the same underpinnings as the A-Class and GLA.

Note: Mercedes-Benz Concept IAA pictured

Photo Gallery