Power Comparable to a V8 Engine

The plug-in hybrid variant of the S-Class, whose existence was hinted at during the announcement of the latest W222 model and unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, will now go on sale in Japan.

The powertrain combines a 3.0-liter V6 biturbo engine, delivering a maximum output of 245 kW (333 ps) and peak torque of 480 Nm, with an electric motor producing 85 kW (115 ps) and 350 Nm. This results in a combined system output of 325 kW (442 ps) and 650 Nm, approaching the power of the "S 550 Long" with its 4.6-liter V8 biturbo engine (335 kW / 455 ps / 700 Nm).

The lithium-ion battery allows for an all-electric range of approximately 33 km, with a top speed of 140 km/h. A full charge using an AC 200V source takes about 4 hours. Fast charging is not supported.

The S 550 Plug-in Hybrid offers four driving modes: the standard "HYBRID," the motor-focused "E-MODE," "E-SAVE" to maintain battery charge, and "CHARGE" which prioritizes charging through regenerative braking. Additionally, the transmission can be selected from the standard "E," "E+" for enhanced efficiency using regenerative braking, and "S" for sporty driving.

Perhaps due to its substantial curb weight of 2,330 kg, the heaviest among the S-Class models available in Japan, its fuel economy is rated at 13.4 km/ℓ under the JC08 mode. While this is slightly less than the S 400 Hybrid's 15.4 km/ℓ, it is still superior to the S 550 Long, which has a similar power output, at 10.5 km/ℓ.

Maximizing Hybrid Range with Intelligent Drive Applications

Like other S-Class models, the S 550 Plug-in Hybrid is equipped with a semi-autonomous driving system that supports acceleration, braking, and steering operations. This system utilizes a stereo multi-purpose camera on the windshield and a total of six short- and long-range radar sensors to constantly monitor the vehicle's surroundings in 360 degrees, including preceding and following vehicles, oncoming traffic, crossing vehicles, and pedestrians.

The hallmark of the S 550 Plug-in Hybrid is its intelligent plug-in hybrid system, which leverages this technology – collectively termed "Intelligent Drive" by Mercedes-Benz – to optimize hybrid range. It intelligently adjusts the strength of regenerative braking and its operating times based not only on the vehicle's charge status but also on surrounding traffic conditions, ensuring maximum efficiency.

The driver receives two distinct actions via the intelligent accelerator pedal. The first is the "pressure point function" during EV driving (E-MODE). As the pedal is pressed further, it increases resistance at the point where the engine would normally engage, thus preventing unnecessary engine startup.

The second is the "double pulse function," which is active when the transmission is set to "E+" for prioritized regenerative braking. This function uses radar to measure the distance and relative speed to the vehicle ahead. If further acceleration is unnecessary or the vehicle ahead decelerates, the system generates two tactile pulses on the pedal, prompting the driver to lift off the accelerator. When the accelerator is released in "E+" mode, regenerative braking engages, allowing for deceleration, maintaining a safe distance, and simultaneously recharging the battery.

Eligible for Eco-Car Tax Reductions and Clean Energy Subsidies

As mentioned, the intelligent plug-in hybrid system is supported by a suite of driving assistance and safety features. These include "DISTRONIC PLUS" with steering assist, "BAS PLUS" with cross-traffic assist active below 72 km/h, "PRE-SAFE Brake," "REAR-END COLLISION PREVENTION" (REAR CPA) as a rear-end collision warning system, "Active Lane Keeping Assist," "Crosswind Assist" to counteract side gusts, and "Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus" for automatic adjustment of high beam illumination.

Additionally, optional packages are available, such as the "Chauffeur Package" featuring rear seats that recline up to 43.5 degrees, and the "AIR-BALANCE Package" which includes a hot-stone massage function, air purification, and a perfume atomizer.

In addition to the "Mercedes-Benz Care" warranty, which covers unlimited mileage for three years from the new car purchase, this model uniquely offers a special four-year warranty on all components, including the lithium-ion battery, for a total of seven years of coverage.

The S 550 Hybrid introduced in Japan will be right-hand drive only. The price, including tax, is 15.9 million yen. It is eligible for eco-car tax reductions, with a 100% exemption on vehicle weight tax and acquisition tax. Furthermore, recipients can receive up to 850,000 yen in subsidies under the Clean Energy Vehicle Introduction Promotion Measures. Deliveries are expected to commence in December.

Mercedes-Benz S 550 PLUG-IN HYBRID long
Mercedes-Benz S 550 Plug-in Hybrid Long
Body Dimensions | Length 5,250 x Width 1,900 x Height 1,495 mm
Wheelbase | 3,165 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,630 / 1,635 mm
Minimum Ground Clearance | 130 mm
Weight | 2,230 kg
Engine | 2,996cc V6 DOHC Twin-Turbo
Bore x Stroke | 88.0 x 82.1 mm
Compression Ratio | 10.7
Engine Max Output | 245 kW (333 ps) / 5,250-6,000 rpm
Engine Max Torque | 480 Nm (48.9 kgm) / 1,600-4,000 rpm
Motor | AC Synchronous Electric Motor

Motor Output | 85 kW (115 ps)
Motor Torque | 350 Nm (35.7 kgm)
System Max Output | 325 kW (442 ps)
System Max Torque | 650 Nm (66.3 kgm)
Transmission | 7-Speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC)
Drive System | FR
Tires Front/Rear | 245/45R19 / 275/40R19
Brakes Front/Rear | Ventilated Discs / Ventilated Discs
Fuel Economy (JC08 Mode) | 13.4 km/ℓ
Minimum Turning Radius | 5.7 m
Trunk Capacity | 365 Liters
Price (incl. tax) | 15.9 Million Yen