2010
Mercedes Benz S400 hybrid vehicle
Updated: October, 2009
The
first Mercedes hybrid to hit US Streets
Mercedes has a number of hybrid vehicles coming out by
2010, but the first is the 2010
Mercedes Benz S400 hybrid vehicle.
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.
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. That helps provide a big boost to the S400's fuel economy.
According to the EPA, the S400 achieves 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway for a combined average of 21 mpg.
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.
--> Mercedes S400 tax credit determined
Other Mercedes Hybrids
Mercedes ML450 hybrid
Mercedes E300 hybrid
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