Based on the S350, The S400 BlueHYBRID has a 3.5-liter V-6 gasoline engine mated to a 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission with reprogrammed management software for the hybrid application. It also has a new auxiliary oil pump for transmission lubrication even when the engine is switched off.
The 2009 S400 BlueHYBRID will be Mercedes-Benz’ first hybrid passenger car and also the first mass-production hybrid with a lithium-ion battery that’s been specially developed for automotive use. The S Class hybrid will go sale in Europe in June 2009 and be available in the U.S. three months later.
The S400 BlueHYBRID’s motor acts as a generator when braking to keep the Li-ion battery charged. Besides saving fuel, regenerative braking saves brake wear and tear since brakes are only activated when the driver applies heavy pressure to the pedal. Otherwise, braking is provided by engine compression and regenerative braking alone.
Mercedes-Benz says the S400 BlueHYBRID is the world’s most economical luxury sedan that uses a gasoline engine. Compared to the S350, fuel economy is improved by up to 2.2 liters per 100 kilometers for an overall rating of 7.9 liter/100 km (30 mpg). Overall CO2 emissions are reduced by 21 percent to just 190 grams per kilometer, for the world’s lowest CO2 emissions in this vehicle and performance class.