Mercedes Confirms S-Class Hybrid Ready To Go In 2009

Mercedes has confirmed that it will be ready to release the S-Class gasoline-electric hybrid vehicle in 2009. The vehicle, based on the S400 concept, was originally expected in 2008. The car would be the first production hybrid manufactured by the German automaker, which until this time has chosen to focus on the development of diesel and clean diesel vehicles. The new vehicle will be available in the US and China in 2009 and is expected to deliver about 30 mpg.

The hybrid S-Class vehicle is not likely to have strong consumer appeal. Although the company has not set its MSRP yet, the car is expected to have a stick price in excess of $100,000. The new Mercedes will operate from a small lithium-ion battery not much larger than a conventional car battery. This design eliminates the need for significant re-engineering of the passenger space on the hybrid S-Class. The hybrid system will supplement the gasoline engine during acceleration. The battery will be recharged using a regenerative braking scheme.

Mercedes has said that it plans to build a full line of hybrid vehicles, releasing a new one each year until all of its lines offer a hybrid alternative.