It seems like Mercedes-Benz has bigger problems compared to other automakers. Currently, they are in a real crisis of running out of car names especially when it wants to add new, additional models to the lineup!
The German automaker plans on launching 30 models, including 11 new models, by 2020 and the company also plans on introducing new sub-brands, body variants and drive systems. According to Mercedes, “This results in an increasingly complex situation when it comes to naming the models.”
Like, seriously?
To make it simple, starting next year, the company’s core models like the A, B, C, E and S will remain the same name while its SUV and sports car lineup will have the following name change.
- GLA = GL A-Class
- GLC = GL C-Class; previously GLK
- GLE = GL E-Class; previously M-Class or ML
- GLE Coupé = GL E-Class Coupé
- GLS = GL S-Class; previously GL
- G = unchanged
The system for the 4-door Coupés is constructed along similar lines. The first two letters, “CL”, denote the origin, the third letter the link to one of the core model series: in other words CLA and CLA Shooting Brake, or CLS and CLS Shooting Brake.
From 2016 on, the Roadsters will all include “SL” in their names to denote their origin, with the third letter again the link to one of the core model series. The SLK therefore becomes the new SLC. As in the case of the G, the SL retains its designation as hitherto, in recognition of its iconic status, says Mercedes-Benz.
Engines, other than petrol-powered, will also get new designations with a single lower case letter on the trunk lid:
- C for compressed natural gas — it is currently called National Gas Drive
- D for diesel, replacing BlueTEC and CDI
- E for electric, replacing Plug-in Hybrid BlueTEC Plug-in Hybrid and Electric Drive
- F for fuel cell, currently F-Cell
- H for hybrid, currently Hybrid and BlueTEC Hybrid.
High-performance AMG models will be called Mercedes-AMG and a more luxurious version of the S-Class will be named Mercedes-Maybach instead of Mercedes-Benz.
What it comes down to is, we won’t be surprised if you have a hard time trying to figuring out which type of Mercedes you’re driving unless you buy their sedan or roadster!
