Hybrids 'for some time' into future

15 September 2003: With fuel cells not yet ready for full-scale production, Mercedes-Benz says there is definitely a place for hybrid drive systems for some time into the future.

The company's engineers have paired the Mercedes 245hp 6-cylinder engine with two electric motors, which are fitted parallel to one another in front of the automatic transmission.

The system cuts fuel consumption in the European driving cycle by 20 percent, whilst at the same time reducing exhaust gas emissions. When the driver is parking or manoeuvring, stuck in stop-start traffic or driving at speeds below 50 km/h, the hybrid system's electronic control unit automatically switches from petrol to electric operation.

Some 300 Newton metres of torque is available from the electric motors over the first few metres. An automatic clutch system then synchronises and switches on the internal combustion engine as and when more output is required.

Stored in the rear section of the vehicle, the traction battery has capacity of 1.8 kilowatt-hours. The nickel/metal hydride battery is recharged while the vehicle is operating under the power of the V6 engine, primarily using the energy generated when braking.

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