Daimler to launch at least six electric cars, perhaps even nineDaimler to launch at least six electric cars, perhaps even nine

In response to the success of Tesla Motors, established German luxury automakers are getting serious about electric cars.
Audi and Porsche are both planning new all-electric models, and BMW is expected to expand its “i” range with at least one new model as well.
But a new report indicates Daimler may have the most ambitious plans of all.
DON’T MISS: Now, finally, the Germans are getting scared of Tesla?
The Mercedes-Benz parent is planning at least six new electric cars, and may build as many as nine, reports Reuters.
The news service cited an anonymous source familiar with the matter, and noted that German trade magazine Automobilwoche previously reported on Daimler plans for six electric cars.
That report claimed these models would appear between 2018 and 2024.
Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6 concept, 2016 Monterey Car WeekThe range of models would likely span multiple brands.
Mercedes unveiled the Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6 concept at the 2016 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance last month.
This was a massive all-electric coupe for the Mercedes-Maybach ultra-luxury brand, featuring four electric motors producing a combined 550 kilowatts (738 horsepower), and a claimed range of 200 miles.
ALSO SEE: Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6 concept coupe: all-electric powertrain hints at future plans
Mercedes is also expected to unveil an all-electric concept at the 2016 Paris Motor Show later this month.
This may preview one of four rumored all-electric Mercedes production models, a group that is expected to include two SUVs and two sedans.
In addition to straight battery-electric cars, Mercedes plans to launch the plug-in fuel-cell GLC F-Cell next year.
2017 Smart ForTwo Electric Drive (European model) prototype, Aug 2016Based on the GLC-Class crossover, the F-Cell has a hydrogen fuel-cell powertrain, but also uses a lithium-ion battery pack for electricity storage.
It’s also worth noting that not all of Daimler’s planned electric cars will be luxury vehicles.
The six-car total likely includes the next-generation Smart Fortwo Electric Drive, which will debut at the Paris show this month.
MORE: 2017 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive prototype: first ride impressions
It’s possible that Smart will launch an all-electric version of the four-door Forfour model (which isn’t sold in the U.S.) at some point as well.
In the U.S., Daimler currently offers just two all-electric cars: the current-generation Fortwo, and the Mercedes-Benz B250e.
Formerly known as the B-Class Electric Drive, this model is only available in a handful of electric-car-friendly states.
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