Mercedes Will Not, However, Employ BMW Engines

Following speculation about a potential historic engine supply deal between Mercedes-Benz and BMW, an official denial has been issued. As reported by Motor1, Markus Schaefer, Chief Technology Officer and member of the Board of Directors of the Mercedes-Benz Group, stated that the company has no intention of using engines from a direct competitor such as BMW.

Rumors in August suggested that the two German automakers were in advanced talks about Mercedes using BMW’s 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine (B48) in future models, particularly compact vehicles and plug-in hybrid versions of the C-Class and E-Class. The aim was reportedly to reduce development costs and ensure compliance with the upcoming Euro 7 emissions regulations.

However, Schaefer dismissed these claims during the IAA trade show in Munich: “There is no truth in that. We have developed our own new family of modular engines—FAME (Family of Modular Engines)—which covers all volumes and already complies with EU7, China 7, and US regulations.”

Schaefer confirmed that the new high-performance V8, which fully complies with the strictest emissions regulations, is nearing completion and that V12 engines will continue to be part of Mercedes’ range. “We will continue to offer the V12 and also the V8,” he said. “We have a complete, in-house, up-to-date engine range that is ready for the future.”

Now, with Schaefer’s official statement, it is clear: Mercedes has no intention of hiring internal combustion engine manufacturers, especially not a direct competitor.

The denials come at a crucial time for Mercedes, as the company accelerates its electrification strategy without completely abandoning the internal combustion engine.

• Also See: Report: Mercedes-Benz In Talks To Use BMW Engines