Mercedes-AMG Hybrids To Have Up To 804 HP, Next C63 Confirmed With 640HP+ 2.0-Liter

In addition to announcing new all-electric models, Mercedes-AMG has provided details about the high-performance hybrid powertrains it is developing.

The German automaker is developing hybrid powertrains that use four- and eight-cylinder engines, pairing them with a synchronous electric motor, a high-performance battery, and fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive.

The electric motor has been developed exclusively by AMG and powers the rear wheels, positioned within an electrically shifted two-speed transmission and an electronically controlled rear axle differential lock known as the Electric Drive Unit (EDU). It can produce up to 201 hp and 236 lb-ft (320 Nm) of torque. While power is ordinarily sent through the rear, the motor can transfer power to the front wheels if there is too much slip at the rear.

Like the Porsche Taycan, the two-speed transmission means the motor provides excellent performance from a standstill and once it hits approximately 87 mph (140 km/h), second gear is enabled, allowing the car to continue to pull strongly.

Models equipped with a new hybrid powertrain from Mercedes-AMG will include Electric, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Race, and Individual modes. Each model also includes the AMG Dynamics system that influences the electronic stability control, all-wheel drive, and the electronically controlled rear-axle differential lock. Four different levels of brake recuperation will also be available.

In its flagship form, this electric motor will be paired to a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, initially debuting in the Mercedes-AMG GT73. The flagship plug-in hybrid V8 will be good for up to 804 hp and 738 lb-ft (1,000 Nm) of torque, allowing models to hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in less than three seconds.

Mercedes-AMG has also confirmed the powertrain for the next-generation C 63. As long-rumored, the car will have a 2.0-liter plug-in hybrid. This system will include the company’s current M139 2.0-liter four-cylinder, mounted longitudinally, and modified to deliver upwards of 442 hp. When coupled to the 201 hp electric motor, the sedan will have almost 650 hp.