In part as a response to tighter emission standards, Mercedes-Benz has announced that it will be offering hybrid versions of its high-performance AMG models in the near future.

Hybrids and high-performance typically don't go hand-in-hand, but the federal government's insistence on higher average mpg ratings for all brands means that automakers must be very careful with debuting any gas-guzzling sports cars, as the AMG models have been known to be. One way to combat that is by offering hybrid versions of the model, which Mercedes appears primed to do.

Mercedes' head of advanced engineering, Herbert Kohler, told Autocar: "In the future AMG will still offer high performance models but there will be hybrids there. AMG needs to reduce fuel consumption."

Hybrid technology can generally be used in two ways with regards to performance-oriented vehicles. Flywheels, ultracapacitors and high-powered batteries can actually serve to increase the available power that a car has, as Porsche will be doing on its upcoming performance hybrids. Or the automaker can incorporate stop-start technologies like regenerative braking that serve to reduce emissions and fuel consumption.

For now, Mercedes appears to be taking the second route, although the models won't be here for a few years. In the meantime, drivers interested in performance or hybrid vehicles may want to shop the used car market, as both of these vehicles typically carry high price tags.