Mercedes has launched a plug-in hybrid version of the S500 at the Frankfurt motor show.
The Mercedes Vision S500 plug-in hybrid concept is powered by a V6 petrol engine connected to a 10kwh lithium-ion battery pack and 44kw hybrid module. This allows the S500 to run for 18.6 miles on electric power alone, before the direct-injection engine takes over.
See the Mercedes Vision S500 plug-in hybrid concept picture gallery
It has CO2 emissions of 74g/km and fuel consumption is claimed to be 88.3mpg.
Dieter Zetsche, head of Mercedes cars, said: “The S500 Hybrid is a new milestone on our path toward zero-emission mobility. It is a luxurious and safe S-Class vehicle that offers superior driving performance while at the same time consuming less fuel than current compacts.
“All of this shows that our top models will also be able to combine automotive fascination with responsibility for the environment.”
Mercedes has said an S500 plug-in hybrid is some way off production, but it shows the direction it wants to go with its future executive saloons.
Frankfurt motor show 2009: full preview
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