Mercedes Unveils M252LS 1.5T Four-Cylinder Engine, Debuting Electric Turbo Technology in Passenger Cars

Recently, Mercedes-Benz unveiled a 1.5T four-cylinder engine codenamed M252LS, marking the first application of F1-derived electric turbo technology in the passenger car segment. The engine produces 170kW, accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h 0.1 seconds faster than the previous-generation M260, and reduces CO2 emissions by 17%. The electric turbo features a 5kW motor mounted on the shaft between the turbine and compressor, connected to a 48V system. During launch or hard acceleration, the motor directly drives the compressor to build boost; once exhaust energy is sufficient, the turbine switches to direct drive, and the motor enables 2kW of kinetic energy recovery. Mercedes-Benz previously applied electric turbo technology in the AMG SL43 and C43 models, with the concept derived from F1's MGU-H heat energy recovery system. Mercedes won eight F1 constructors' championships between 2014 and 2021. The MGU-H will be eliminated under new F1 regulations in 2026. Mercedes-Benz plans to launch nearly 30 new models by the end of 2027, covering pure electric, plug-in hybrid, and electrified combustion powertrain routes.