New Delhi: Mercedes-Benz India says it will continue introducing hybrid vehicles in the country, even as government policies remain largely focused on fully electric vehicles.
The luxury automaker on Thursday launched the AMG E 53 Plug-in Hybrid, available in two variants priced at ₹1.45 crore and ₹1.48 crore (ex-showroom). The company believes plug-in hybrids offer an ideal transition for buyers who are interested in electrification but are not yet ready to switch to a fully electric car.
Mercedes-Benz India Managing Director and CEO Santosh Iyer said electrification remains the company’s long-term direction, but a significant share of customers still prefer alternatives due to practical concerns.
According to Iyer, issues such as limited charging infrastructure, range anxiety, and uncertainty over resale value continue to influence consumer decisions. Plug-in hybrid technology addresses these concerns by combining the flexibility of a conventional combustion engine with the benefits of electric driving.
Despite the absence of incentives for hybrids in some regions—such as Delhi’s EV policy—the company plans to keep expanding its plug-in hybrid portfolio wherever market demand exists.
Mercedes-Benz India currently offers a broad mix of powertrains, including E20-compliant petrol models, BS-VI Phase II diesel vehicles, plug-in hybrids, and fully electric cars. Iyer said this technology-neutral approach enables the brand to meet varying customer preferences while staying ahead of changing market trends.
He added that although the company supports policymakers’ emphasis on electric mobility, it also believes customers should have the freedom to choose the technology that best fits their needs. Plug-in hybrids can serve as a stepping stone for many buyers before they eventually transition to full EVs.
Highlighting the newly launched AMG E 53 Plug-in Hybrid, Iyer said the performance sedan combines AMG’s signature driving dynamics with improved efficiency, making it suitable for both high-performance driving and everyday use. The model also reinforces the company’s “powertrain agnostic” strategy, allowing customers to select the propulsion technology that aligns with their lifestyle and usage.
In a separate announcement, Mercedes-Benz India unveiled a multi-year partnership with the Indian Padel Tour, becoming the title sponsor for the 2026–27 season. The move marks the brand’s first entry into competitive padel.
The upcoming season will feature 19 tournaments across 10 Indian cities, including 10 City Opens, five Grand Slams, and four special IP events. The tour is scheduled to begin in Mumbai in August 2026 and conclude with the season finale in Bengaluru in June 2027.
Iyer said the partnership reflects Mercedes-Benz India’s focus on supporting emerging lifestyle trends while promoting performance-driven experiences beyond the automotive sector.