Mercedes-Benz has used the New York Motor Show to join the hybrid SUV club, revealing the first full hybrid from a European manufacturer in the form of the ML450 Hybrid.
Mercedes-Benz says the ML450 Hybrid consumes almost 50 per cent less fuel than the ML550, although it boasts more than 90 per cent of the maximum power generated by the V8 model.
“It is our clear objective to make every model generation better in every respect. We pay particularly close attention to safety, comfort, efficiency and environmental compatibility – something clearly demonstrated by every single one of the models we are presenting in New York,” says Dr. Klaus Maier, Head of Marketing and Sales for Mercedes-Benz Cars.
The German company is hailing the ML 450 Hybrid as having four-cylinder fuel consumption with eight-cylinder power.
The ML 450 Hybrid is equipped with the latest in hybrid technology, which offers exceptional efficiency in both urban stop-and-go traffic and unhindered highway driving at increased engine loads and higher speeds.
Ernst Lieb, CEO and President of Mercedes-Benz USA said in New York, “The intelligent control of the hybrid driveline automatically selects the optimum drive configuration. Depending on conditions, the ML 450 Hybrid can operate entirely on electric power or on the combustion engine alone or on a combination of both drives.”
“The performance figures for the ML 450 Hybrid, 250kW and 517Nm, are at the level of a classic eight-cylinder SUV with permanent all-wheel drive. “Yet, its fuel consumption and its emissions are up to 60 percent lower,” continued Mr Lieb.
Conceived specifically for the North American market, the ML 450 Hybrid is the most efficient vehicle in its segment. Classified as a Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV), the SUV complies with the strictest current US emissions standard.
Mercedes-Benz says the powertrain is controlled fully automatically, meaning that the driver can concentrate on the traffic and enjoy the driving experience of the ML 450 Hybrid without additional operational effort.
