German luxury carmaker Mercedes-Benz has announced that it has decided to increase its employee strength in the research and development (R&D) segment in India.

The company said that it is looking forward to add around 200 engineers, both from German and India, to its Indian R&D unit by 2010 end.

The company is also preparing to roll out its new variant of its E-Class sedans by the end of this year. Right now, the company is having 300 engineers at its R&D facility in Bangalore.

Mercedes sold 3,625 cars in 2008.

Speaking to reporters, Mercedes Benz India, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Wilfried Aulbur said, "We are looking to add another 100-200 engineer by the end of next year at our R&D unit in Bangalore, which is our largest R&D presence outside Germany."

A special edition of its C-Class car is rolled out by the company today. The new C-Class car is available in both petrol and diesel models and priced between Rs 28.46 lakh and Rs 31.30 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

Speaking to media, Mr. Aulbu said, "We have a market share of 36-38 per cent in the luxury segment in India, which is estimated to reach 8,000 units annually by the end of this year."