AMG’S plug-in play

AMG is poised to muscle in on Merc’s EV expansion, though not with a wicked-up version of the EQC. Instead it will launch its own electric performance brand, called EQ Power+, that will see the entire range of AMG product adopt plug-in hybrid powertrains.

The plan, which is already well advanced, was confirmed to Wheels at the EQC’S debut by the former head of AMG and current Mercedes-benz board member for research and development, Ola Kallenius.

“If we talk about EQ as a technology brand, what we have decided to do with AMG is to develop a range of [hipo] plug-in hybrids,” he said. “AMG is in full-scale development of this to hybridise the AMG fleet post 2020.”

Kallenius wouldn’t be drawn on what size battery packs AMG will utilise, or what combustion engines they’ll be partnered with.

AMG already embraces electrification with its range of ‘53’ badged variants, which utilise a 48v mild-hybrid system and an electric compressor to support a conventional turbocharger.