Mercedes-Benz Debuts Electric Turbocharger Engine
The automaker is integrating new 48-volt turbo technology to boost efficiency and performance in its 1.5-litre engines.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Electric Vehicles
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Mercedes-Benz has introduced a new 1.5-litre gasoline engine featuring an electric turbocharger powered by a 48-volt system. The innovation recovers exhaust energy to improve performance and reduce carbon emissions.
Why it matters
The company is maintaining both combustion and battery-electric technology routes to better address the varied needs and expectations of its global customer base.
The new M 252 LS engine generates 170kW plus 23kW of electric power, resulting in performance that is one-tenth of a second faster in the GLB 250 than previous models. Additionally, the automaker is testing cobalt-free cells expected to provide up to 30% more range than lithium iron phosphate batteries.
The players
Mercedes-Benz
A German luxury automotive brand known for its commitment to engineering innovation and the development of high-performance vehicles.
The details
By utilizing a 48-volt electrical system, the turbocharger efficiently recovers energy that would otherwise be lost. Mercedes-Benz also optimized its battery chemistry by pairing lithium manganese oxide with nickel manganese cobalt cathodes to reduce reliance on specific raw materials.
Timeline
More than 40 vehicle launches are scheduled to utilize this shared hardware by the end of 2027.
Roadmap
This engine advancement reflects a strategic decision to keep combustion and battery technology routes open during the industry-wide transition to electric vehicles. Mercedes-Benz is positioning these flexible hardware solutions to support a diverse fleet until full electrification objectives are reached.
Drivers can expect improved performance and better fuel efficiency from future models equipped with this new 1.5-litre engine. These technological updates also signal a broader move toward 800-volt drive units across the automaker's E-Class and S-Class lineups.
The takeaway
Mercedes-Benz is proving that internal combustion engines can still evolve to meet modern environmental standards through electrification. Drivers looking for a balance between traditional engine power and reduced carbon footprints should watch for these updates in upcoming vehicle releases.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations in Electric Vehicles.
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Should automakers continue developing combustion engine technology alongside electric vehicle programs?
