Mercedes-Benz, under the leadership of CEO Dr. Dieter Zetsche (pictured above during the Paris show debut of the S400 BlueHYBRID), is moving quickly to utilize hybrid, electric, and diesel power in an effort to further reduce the overall fuel consumption and emissions output of its fleet of vehicles. And with CAFE regulations looming in the U.S., the Stuttgart brand is reportedly planning to introduce into the U.S. market a hybrid model in each of its best selling lines -- the S, E, and C-Classes -- during the next several years.
Beginning next fall, Mercedes will debut its S400 BlueHYBRID, which is powered by the brand's well-known 3.5L V-6 and a small electric motor. In Euro-spec trim, the gas engine makes 279 hp. The engine is mated to the lithium-ion battery-powered electric motor, which is built inside the car's bell housing. The system is similar in scope to the GM two-mode hybrids, which were developed in a partnership between GM and the former DaimlerChrysler, and BMW.
The electric motor reportedly gives the sedan an extra 118 lb-ft of torque according to Mercedes -- which should bode well for acceleration considering the sedan's size. Currently, official fuel ratings are still being determined, but engineers recently mentioned to MT executive editor Matt Stone at the Paris motor show that the S400 BlueHYBRID has already attained a European fuel-cycle rating of nearly 30 mpg.
Expected to follow the S-Class is the midrange E-Class hybrid. Although details are slim, many insiders have pegged the car to be released near the debut of the next generation E-Class in 2010. Much the same story is speculated with the smaller C-Class hybrid. Since its newest C-Class recently made its debut a few model years back, a hybrid version probably won't be available until a year or two after the E-Class version at the earliest.
Dr. Z also mentioned the automaker's intentions to begin trial testing of a limited-edition all-electric smart fortwo. European (and possibly U.S.) trials are set to start next year, but, unfortunately, only 1000 examples will be initially made available to consumers. Officials at the small car brand estimate production of an electric ultra-compact car could reach between 12,000 and 15,000 units annually. Some will even be brought stateside, Dr. Z stated.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription required), Diesel or Hybrid? Mercedes-Benz Will Soon Offer Both by MT's Matt Stone
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