I didn't see this earlier, the ML450 Hybrid:



ML 450 HYBRID: first German two-mode petrol hybrid SUV on the market

Mercedes-Benz will also be presenting the ML 450 HYBRID, due to be launched on the market in 2009 as the most economical two-mode petrol hybrid SUV worldwide. Its innovative two-mode hybrid system enables electric driving and satisfies the highest comfort demands. With a combined system output of 250 kW/340 hp and a combined maximum torque of 480 Nm, the ML 450 HYBRID consumes just 7.7 litres per 100 kilometres - equivalent to CO2 emissions of 185 g/km.

Product highlights at this year’s International Motor Show in Frankfurt also include the new C-Class Estate, which combines functionality with stylish design and hallmark Mercedes refinement. Mercedes-Benz will also be exhibiting various C-Class BLUETEC versions — with and without hybrid — which are due to be launched successively.

The Mercedes Car Group will also be presenting future hybrid solutions for smart models at the IAA. The fuel-efficient 3-cylinder petrol smart fortwo mhd, or “micro hybrid drive” will be available from October 2007. A study of the smart fortwo mhd based on the current CO2 champion among series-production cars, the smart fortwo cdi (88g/km), shows a further clear reduction in CO2 emissions to just 78g/km by use of the micro hybrid drive concept’s start/stop function.

This is an obvious ode to the U.S. market. I need the engine details now though. I guess we'll have to wait for yet another press release!

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M

Nice fuel numbers (if they are official), but wouldn't a Diesel-Hybrid make more sense then a petrol-hybrid?

I guess Lexus will finally have some competition in this segment.

Yes this is a U.S. market bound concept if there ever was one. Question is will they sell this and the ML320 Bluetec side by side? Going to be a glut of buyers with this much choice (ML320, ML350, ML450, ML550, ML63). I'd say for 2009 along with a facelift to distance it from the GLK and the ML should see some really strong sales increases.

M

A diesel-hybrid would make more sense for an SUV, but I suppose Mercedes wants to tackle the Lexus RX400h with this baby. Shouldn't be too hard from a design perspective!

My new "dream" SUV.

So what type is the engine? 3.5 V6?

Found this on another news site.

Maybe you thought Mercedes was going to save the planet with diesels alone, but it turns out Stuttgart sees value in hybrids as well. And the ML450 Hybrid isn't one of those diesel-electric hybrids the company has been talking about building. Its primary power source is a gasoline engine, most likely M-B's 3.5-liter V6.