Mercedes-Benz S HYBRID Long: The Hybrid Car is Finally Here
Mercedes-Benz S HYBRID Long | Mercedes-Benz S-Class Hybrid Long
Mercedes' Hybrid Car, Finally Launched
Mercedes-BenzJapan has added the hybrid model "S-Class HYBRID Long" to its lineup, coinciding with the introduction of the minor change model of its flagship S-Class, and launched it on September 3rd.
Photo: Mercedes-Benz Japan
First Lithium-Ion Battery in a Mass-Produced Hybrid Car
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class HYBRID Long is not only the first hybrid car among imported vehicles but also the first eco-car eligible for tax reductions among officially imported cars.
The engine is a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline unit, which has undergone significant improvements to enhance thermal efficiency specifically for this model.
The newly developed hybrid system, paired with this gasoline engine, consists of a thin electric motor integrated between the engine and transmission, and a lithium-ion battery, the first for a mass-produced hybrid car. This system, through thorough compact and lightweight design, has reportedly succeeded in limiting the weight increase to just 75kg.
Furthermore, the lithium-ion battery is installed in the engine compartment, similar to conventional car batteries, thus securing the same trunk space capacity as the regular gasoline model.
The compact electric motor, generating a maximum torque of 160Nm, supports the gasoline engine as a boost function during starting and acceleration, reducing the engine's load. Conversely, during deceleration, it functions as a generator, recovering kinetic energy and charging the battery through regenerative braking.
100% Exemption from Automobile Acquisition Tax and Weight Tax
The engine is equipped with an "ECO Start-Stop Function" that stops the engine below 15 km/h, entering an idling stop state, which greatly contributes to reducing fuel consumption. Incidentally, the S-Class HYBRID Long achieves a fuel economy of 11.2 km/ℓ in the 10-15 mode, a roughly 30% improvement compared to the S350.
The battery's charge status and the motor assist status are realistically displayed in real-time on the multi-function display within the instrument panel, named the Energy Flow Display.
Boasting the world's highest level of fuel efficiency and environmental compatibility for a luxury sedan, the S-Class HYBRID Long has received certification for "75% Reduction Level of 2005 Emission Standards" from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. In terms of fuel efficiency, it has also achieved "25% Improvement over 2010 Fuel Efficiency Standards" certification. As the first eco-car eligible for tax reductions among officially imported vehicles, it is granted a 100% exemption from automobile acquisition tax and weight tax.
The steering is only available on the left side, and the price is 14.05 million yen, nearly the same as its rival, the Lexus LS 600h.
Mercedes-Benz S HYBRID
Body | Length 5230 x Width 1870 x Height 1485mm, Wheelbase 3165mm
Vehicle Weight | 2070kg
Power Unit | 3497cc V6 DOHC Engine + Electric Motor
Maximum Output | Engine: 205kW [279ps]/6000rpm / Motor: 15kW [20ps]
Maximum Torque | Engine: 350Nm [35.7kgm] / Motor: 160Nm [16.3kgm]
Drivetrain | FR
Transmission | Electronically Controlled 7-Speed AT
Price | 14.05 million yen
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