In light of the Bentley Bentayga coming out in the near future, Mercedes-Benz is contemplating whether or not to build a competitor, possibly under the Maybach name.
Andreas Zygan, Mercedes director of development for SUVs tells Automotive News that the demands for ultra-luxury crossovers and SUVs are on the rise. Consider Lamborghini and Rolls-Royce are planning SUVs that will debut in the near future.
"We are looking at everything that is going on with that segment," said Zygan.
"There's an appetite, a market for that. When we get to that point that we expand the Maybach offering -- and we will expand the Maybach offering -- that would be a natural place to go," said Mercedes-Benz USA CEO Steve Cannon.
Cannon points out that the German brand sells a large amount of GL-Class SUV filled with options, along with the G-Wagon.
Zygan declined to comment as to when Mercedes-Benz could make a decision.
Sticking with Mercedes-Benz for another moment, a product planner tells Autoblog the company believes that hybrids will be better than diesels in the long run. This is due to stricter standards in terms of emissions, which is driving up the costs producing a diesel powertrain.
"Yes, diesel is technically complex, and very expensive. The additives to reduce particulate matter are very costly. You'll see more hybrids to meet the changing regulations," said a source.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required), Autoblog
Recommended Comments
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.