Mercedes to launch hybrid on Monday

Motorists in the US can count down the hours until the launch of the new Mercedes ML450 HYBRID.

The German manufacturer will offer the two-mode hybrid as part of a special lease option from Monday, with a monthly lease price of $659 for 36 months and $549 for 60 months.

The vehicle uses a 3.5litre V6 petrol engine and a two-mode hybrid system to produce 46 per cent better fuel economy than a comparable V8-powered ML550 model. Its EPA rating is 24mpg highway, 21mpg city.

The two electric motors each have their own purpose – one is dedicated to pulling away under electric power and is located on the transmission output shaft where it generates 80hp and 260Nm of torque; the other is located closer to the petrol engine which it is used specifically for acceleration and is rated at 83hp.

With a total system performance of 335hp and 517Nm of torque, the electric motors are powered by a 288V NiMH pack that’s enclosed in the rear cargo floor. During both low speed operation and parking, the Mercedes ML450 HYBRID can run on electric drive only up to a maximum speed of 34mph.

About Paul Lucas

Paul is a freelance writer with a background in everything from motoring to finance; and holidays to women's undergarments he just writes about them, honestly! He has now sadly crept into his early 30s and seems to have forgotten everything learned at school Still, he's a green car fanatic and isn't that what counts?

• More Posts (4241)

No comments yet

No comments yet.

Leave a comment