Mercedes Unveil Plans For Hybrid Range

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Fri, 08 Feb 2008

Mercedes is set to join the hybrid bandwagon with the production of its first hybrid model, motoring magazine Auto Express have revealed.

The much anticipated S400 Hybrid – a petrol-electric version of the company’s S-Class flagship – is set to go on sale in UK showrooms next year, as Mercedes looks to compete with Lexus’ range of hybrid models, including the GS450h and LS600h.

Early glimpses of the car being put through its paces have revealed that it will be no ordinary S-Class, with Mercedes promising the saloon will offer drivers an impressive mix of performance, fuel economy and low emissions .

The German carmaker revealed the production version will use the 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine from the S350, assisted by an electric motor, which will produce 299bhp (20bhp more than the standard S-Class) and peak torque to 375Nm.

Acceleration from 0-62mph will be achievable in 7.3 seconds, while the hybrid will be limited to a top speed of 155mph.

Drivers will also be pleased to hear that the S400 Hybrid promises to return 36mpg combined and emit only 190g/km of CO2 .

The German carmaker also said it plans to add a diesel version of the luxury saloon to its low-emission range, which will based on the S400 Bluetec Hybrid concept revealed at last year’s Los Angeles Motor Show .

Completing the hybrid range will be a smaller S300 Bluetec Hybrid, due to arrive in 2010 and a luxury V8 petrol-hybrid flagship model .