Mercedes to Use BMW Four-Cylinder Engine for the First Time in History: Fans of Both Sides Stunned

August 22 news, if the reports are true, then the cooperation between Mercedes-Benz and BMW will undoubtedly make history!

According to reports from overseas media, due to the electric vehicle market growth not meeting expectations, which has led to strategic adjustments, Mercedes-Benz is in deep negotiations with the BMW Group regarding a supply plan for four-cylinder gasoline engines.

The negotiations between the two parties this time are likely to lead to the first-ever collaboration on power systems between Germany's two major luxury car giants.

It is reported that senior management from both sides are advancing specific plans and agreement terms, and the final cooperation resolution is expected to be announced before the end of this year.

The core of the cooperation between the two parties lies in BMW providing a new generation of four-cylinder gasoline engines for several of Mercedes-Benz's main models, covering the CLA, GLA, GLB, C-Class, E-Class, GLC, and the upcoming entry-level "Little G" series.

Mercedes-Benz internally regards this negotiation as a "strategic collaboration to reduce R&D costs." If an agreement is reached, Mercedes-Benz will not only secure a stable supply of engines that meet the stringent Euro 7 emissions standards, but will also be able to accelerate the expansion of its plug-in hybrid vehicle lineup without additional investment in four-cylinder engine development.

This cooperation proposal coincides with the critical period of Mercedes-Benz's new engine production. The self-developed 1.5T M252 four-cylinder engine by Mercedes-Benz has recently been equipped in the new generation CLA.

This power unit is produced by Horse, a joint venture between China's Geely and Renault, offering three output levels of 136 horsepower, 163 horsepower, and 190 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission integrated with a 27-horsepower electric motor.

Unfortunately, although this engine is compatible with mild hybrid systems, it does not have reserved interfaces for plug-in hybrid or range extender technologies. Currently, plug-in hybrids are undoubtedly the most popular powertrain type, which has given BMW an opportunity.

However, as of now, neither Mercedes-Benz nor BMW has responded to the relevant reports. We will continue to follow this matter closely.