Mercedes-Benz Brings Electric Turbocharging to Standard Models (6 Photos)

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled an upgraded version of its M 252 series 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, designated LS. Its standout feature is a turbocharger with an integrated 5 kW electric motor operating on a 48-volt electrical system. Derived from Formula 1, this technology was previously reserved for the AMG One hypercar and select Mercedes-AMG 43 and 63 models. Now, the German automaker is bringing it to mainstream production models.





The new powertrain will debut in the GLB 250 compact crossover. The gas engine develops 231 hp, with the 48-volt mild-hybrid system providing an additional boost of up to 31 hp.

Mounting the electric motor directly to the turbocharger shaft allows the impeller to spool up instantly regardless of exhaust gas flow. This virtually eliminates turbo lag and delivers sharper acceleration across the entire rev range.

Additionally, the system can operate as a generator, harvesting up to 2 kW of energy from the exhaust stream and converting it into electricity. According to engineers, under certain driving conditions, this energy recovery is enough to power the turbocharger itself without placing an extra load on the vehicle's electrical system.

With the new engine, the GLB 250 reaches 100 km/h 0.1 seconds faster than its predecessor, while carbon dioxide emissions have dropped by roughly 17%. Alongside the new turbocharger, the engine gains twin balance shafts to minimize vibration.







Mercedes-Benz GLB 250