Lotus consults on Mercedes S-Class Hybrid
Following spy shots of S-Class Hybrid prototypes leaving the Lotus facilities in Norwich, England, industry insiders have concluded that Mercedes has turned to the British sportscar maker and engineering firm for input on the sedan's hybrid power system.
The upcoming S-Class Hybrid's electric motor sits in front of the front-mounted transmission, and will be coupled to either a gasoline-powered 268-hp 3.5L V6 to produce a combined 300 hp and return 35 mpg, or a 2.2L 168 hp diesel incorporating the latest BLUETEC technology.
Although best known for its chassis consulting, Lotus it seems was brought on to put the finishing touches on the hybrid's sophisticated drivetrain, specifically the mechanism that switches between the conventional and electric motors. No doubt, Lotus has been developing its new specialty in the green arena thanks to its work with Tesla on the all-EV Roaster.
[Source: Autocar via German Car Scene]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Johnny Rocket 2:34PM (7/10/2007)
This is interesting news. The present Mercedes diesel models are a big improvement in mileage over the petrol models, but the fuel economy isn't great. BLUTEC is supposed to be the diesel's wave of the future, but I haven't seen enough to make me want to buy a diesel Benz just yet. A petrol-electric S is a good sign, but how will it measure against the LS600h?
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mmm 3:00PM (7/10/2007)
It should do well compared to the lexus considering it is using a v6 compared to the large v8 in the lexus. And they are aiming for 35 mpg while the LS600h gets 20/22.
psarhjinian 4:35PM (7/10/2007)
It will get better mileage than the Lexus LS600h. It will be slower than the LS600h. It will have myriad more problems than the LS600h.
Generally, for most Lexus-vs-Mercedes comparisons, the Lexus will be slower and more fuel efficient--this will be a rare flip-flop in that respect. Of course, it's a Mercedes, so it'll still be a flakey--though wonderful-piece.
Adam 1:32PM (7/11/2007)
I can't imagine how slow an S-Class with 168 HP would be. To compensate, will the torque just be huge due to the hybrid setup, making it it less of a slouch?
With that little power, why not at least step down a model the *relatively* lighter E-Class?
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SherbornSean 6:22PM (7/10/2007)
Hard to imagine the high chiefs of engineering at Benz HQ asking a bunch of Brits for help engineering cars, but hey, you never know...
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MikeW 8:56PM (7/10/2007)
Hey were is the direct injection on the 3.5V6?
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