Mercedes S400 Hybrid

Description:

Though the hybrid version of Mercedes Benz’s S-Class luxury sedan is being introduced in the United States, the details of this car are still uncertain and this includes its launch schedule. There are certain schools of though who point out that it might be released as early as in 2009, whereas others state that it shall not be introduced prior to 2010. If the latter happens then this vehicle might get released before the Mercedes Benz S400 Bluetac Hybrid that was first shown to the public as a concept vehicle during the Frankfurt motor show of 2007. The Mercedes Benz S400 is a gas-electric hybrid that is scheduled to be released soon, but ahead of the Bluetac, will be fitted with a 275 HP V6 engine.

The hybrid system of this car comprises of a starter, a generator and an electric motor located between the transmission and the flywheel. This system can provide both starting and stopping capabilities and it can also receive a power boost from electricity. This electric energy is stored in a small Li-ion (lithium ion) battery pack that is being manufactured jointly by a group of battery manufacturers comprising Saft Advanced Battery Systems and Johnson Controls. While hybrid cars do use batteries for powering the electric motor, the S400 will be the first S-class hybrid that will be using a lithium battery. The electric motor of this car shall boost the output power by another 20 HP to give a total capacity of 295 horsepower.

The combined (city/ highway) fuel economy of the Mercedes S400 Hybrid is 30 miles per gallon. Compared to its power and size, the Mercedes S400 Hybrid has relatively low CO2 emissions of 190g per kilometer. This is something that environmentalists would really love. Be prepared to hear rave reviews from them about this car. As far as styling is concerned, the Mercedes S400 Hybrid will be a replica of its non-hybrid cousin. This means that you can expect all the luxuries you are used to from the standard fuel driven sedan. As far as competition is concerned, the only vehicle that can match up to the Mercedes S400 Hybrid is the Lexus LS600h that is a high-end touring hybrid that contains all the works.

While the Mercedes S400 Hybrid will easily beat the Lexus LS600h as far as price is concerned, it shall not be able to perform as well as the Lexus that boasts of a whopping 430 horsepower that it derives from its V8 hybrid powertrain. As of date the price of the Mercedes S400 hybrid has not been revealed, but it should be competitive. As the cost of fuel escalates, one can expect more and more manufacturers to come out with hybrid versions of their conventional cars. This will provide them with an opportunity to serve their loyal clienteles better. You can be rest assured that Mercedes shall be no different and the launch of the Mercedes S400 Hybrid proves that point.