2010
Mercedes Benz S400 hybrid vehicle
Updated: August, 2010
The
first Mercedes hybrid to hit US Streets
--> Check out our Mercedes S400 hybrid testimonials.
OK. This might be most important thing about the Mercedes Benz S400 hybrid. According to a Canadian study, the S400 is the most cost-effective hybrid car.
How is that for a reason to buy the S400 hybrid?
How about 19/26 mpg (city/highway)?
While the S400 hybrid
is technically a mild hybrid, it is a sophisticated mild hybrid. Most interesting, the 295 hp
3.5-liter V-6 hybrid vehicle utilizes lithium batteries rather
than NiMH batteries. That means no trunk space is sacrificed. Moreover, coupled with its electric motor, the power of the S400 hybrid seems more like a V8 than a V6.
Sure, the S400 hybrid cannot function on pure electric power, but it still utilizes regenerative braking, and it can shut on and off
when stationary, providing a big boost to the S400's fuel economy, which should average about 21 mpg, mixed city and highway driving.
However, while the S400 is short on electric power, many have claimed it offers the most seemless acceleration of any hybrid. On the downside, however, many have claimed the braking is less seemless than most other hybrids. So that's a kink Mercedes needs to fix, and I'd bet a braking software update is inevitable.
Still, this S Class hybrid provides the full-size, outstanding comfort that S Class fans demand with its air suspension. Likewise, the large and luxurious cabin can even include an optional massage feature for its extremely well cushioned and maneuverable front bucket seats.
Even better, the Mercedes S Class hybrid isn't just the most fuel efficient S Class vehicle, it's also the cheapest, and since the S400 hybrid offers the best hybrid payback, how can you go wrong going hybrid?
The Future of the S400 hybrid
Mercedes is also
exploring the use of ultracapacitors in its hybrid
vehicles, but it'll probably be another generation before such technology makes its way into the S400 hybrid.
Stay tuned for more
information on the Mercedes Benz S400 hybrid vehicles.
--> Add to or check out our Mercedes S400 hybrid testimonials
--> Mercedes S400 tax credit determined
Other Mercedes Hybrids
Mercedes ML450 hybrid
Mercedes E300 hybrid
|
