Here are the pictures that prove Mercedes’ first hybrid is about to come in from the cold. Meet the S400 Hybrid – a petrol-electric version of the company’s S-Class flagship. The much anticipated newcomer is set to go on sale in the UK in 2009. Despite the snow covering the bootlid of this prototype, caught by our spies undergoing winter testing, it’s easy to make out the badging, which shows this is no ordinary S-Class. Initially revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show last year in concept form, the production version uses the 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine from the S350, and is assisted by an electric motor. This boosts output by 20bhp to 299bhp and peak torque to 375Nm. Mercedes says the model can accelerate from 0-62mph in 7.3 seconds and on to a top speed of 155mph. Competing with Lexus’ range of hybrid models, including the GS450h and LS600h, the S400 Hybrid will offer an impressive mix of performance, fuel economy and low emissions. It promises to return 36mpg combined and emit only 190g/km of CO2. The Mercedes features stop-start technology, while heat energy from the brakes is stored in lithium-ion batteries mounted in the engine bay. It isn’t the only low-emission luxury saloon the German manufacturer is planning. Mercedes will also launch a diesel version, which will be based on the S400 Bluetec Hybrid concept revealed at last year’s Los Angeles Motor Show. The new oil-burner will have a 265bhp 3.0-litre V6 diesel to go with its electric motor, and return upwards of 40mpg. The firm will also launch a smaller S300 Bluetec Hybrid powered by a 2.2-litre four-cylinder oil-burner. This is due to arrive in 2010, while a luxury V8 petrol-hybrid flagship will round out the range.
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