Mercedes-Benz is expected to enter the electric-car niche in the forthcoming future, but its zero-emission vehicles will be offered under a new sub-brand, similar to BMW’s “i” range.

According to Bloomberg, Mercedes is planning its own distinct line of electric vehicles in order to challenge Tesla and BMW.

Sources familiar with the plan, who asked not to be named, said that the German car maker will also introduce two electric sport utility vehicles and two sedans under the said brand – although a name for it has yet to be chosen.

Recently, Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche said that Mercedes will reveal more details about its electric-car plans at the Paris Auto Show in October, where according to the rumors the company plans to introduce an electric SUV capable of driving about 500 km (310 miles) on a single charge.

The vehicle will also sport a distinct design developed by Mercedes to set its electric vehicles apart from the rest of the line-up.

The new sub-brand could help the German car maker implement a new image, especially as its current electric-aided offerings are indistinguishable from their standard counterparts.

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