First Lithium-Ion Hybrid Coming in 2009

In the summer of 2009, Mercedes-Benz will introduce the S400 BlueHYBRID, the world's first passenger hybrid vehicle to be powered by a lithium-ion battery. The new S400 BlueHYBRID is based on the S350 model and pairs a 3.5-liter V6 with an electric motor and lithium-ion battery (which is small enough to fit under the hood -- no more giving up cargo space to store the battery) and features a seven-speed automatic transmission.

The hybrid module is a disc-shaped electric motor that also acts as a starter and generator. It helps to save fuel partly because of the booster effect of the electric motor, as it backs up the gas engine with additional torque during acceleration. The hybrid module also has a start/stop function, which switches the engine off when the vehicle is at a standstill - for example at traffic lights. When it's time to drive off again, the electric motor restarts the main power unit for better fuel economy and environmental protection.

The fuel economy of the S400 BlueHYBRID is around 30mpg, with CO2 emissions reduced by 21 percent (compared to the S350). Mercedez-Benz is expecting availability of the S400 in the summer of 2009. Pricing to be announced. For more information visit www.mbusa.com.