Mercedes-Benz S 400 BlueHYBRID with a mild hybrid drive system

Mercedes-Benz is launching its first passenger car model equipped with a hybrid drive system in summer 2009 - the S 400 BlueHYBRID. The combination of a modified V6 petrol engine and a compact hybrid module makes the S 400 BlueHYBRID the world's most economical luxury sedan with a New European Drive Cycle (NEDC) combined fuel economy rating of almost 30 mpgUS. The 3.5-litre gasoline engine develops 279 HP while the electric motor generates an additional 20 HP and a starting torque of 160 Lb-ft. It is also the first series-production model to be equipped with a lithium-ion battery specially developed for automotive use.