MERSEDES BENZ S 400 HYBRID FOR CARS

While the previous S400 Hybrid unveiled in Frankfurt was gas-electric, the S300 Bluetec Hybrid unveiled with it was stated as producing 413 lb-ft of torque to this S400 Bluetec Hybrid's stated 465. Still, the press materials didn't specifically differentiate it from its Frankfurt-revealed stablemate, and nobody at the Mercedes booth here in LA could tell us if this was actually a different model.

Mercedes-Benz is introducing the S400, a hybrid version of its S-Class luxury sedan, in the United States. But much of the details of the upcoming S400 Hybrid are still uncertain. That includes the vehicle’s launch period. Some sources say 2009, while others say 2010. If it becomes available in 2010, it may overlap with the probable launch of the Mercedes Benz S400 Bluetec Hybrid, which was unveiled as a concept vehicle at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show.

The S400 gas-electric hybrid that’s due out first will be equipped with a 275-horsepower V6 engine. The hybrid system itself consists of an electric motor/generator/starter positioned between the flywheel and the transmission. It can provide start/stop capability and a power boost from electricity. Energy is stored in a small lithium-ion battery pack produced by a joint venture between battery makers, Johnson Controls and Saft Advanced Battery Solutions. This would make the S-Class hybrid the first such production vehicle to use a lithium battery.

The added electric motor should boost output another 20 horses to 295 horsepower. The S400 is expected to deliver fuel economy of 30 miles per gallon in combined driving. Vehicle emissions will also be relatively low (190g/km) given the size and power of the car.