The Mercedes-Benz S-class gains its first-ever hybrid powertrain, a clear indication that its maker is shifting from a strict diesel approach to efficiency and finally acknowledging the worth of hybrids as an essential step on the path to electric propulsion.
The S 400 Hybrid, the first hybrid to use a compact lithium-ion batteries (they have a higher electric power density than conventional nickel metal hydride batteries), and it works brilliantly: Mated to a 3.5-litre V6 with 279bhp and 260lb ft, the hybrid system adds 20bhp and an instant 118lb ft for just 75kgs in mass. The S 400 emits 186g of CO2/km and Mercedes claim it'll return 35.7mpg on the combined cycle. Incredible for a petrol saloon car weighing 1955kg. It also has a top speed of approximately 250 km/h, and goes from 0 to 100 km/h in a just over 7 seconds.
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