The latest addition to the S-Class family is a new-generation plug-in hybrid. With an on-board 7.2-kW charger that allows for fast charging of the battery, the S560e has an approximate all-electric range of 25 miles. The S560e Sedan debuted at the 2017 Frankfurt International Auto Show in September and is expected to go on sale in the U.S. in mid-2019.
Plug-in hybrids represent a key technology on the road to a locally emission-free future for the motor car. This is because they offer customers the best of both worlds; in the city they can drive on battery power alone, while on long journeys they benefit from the combustion engine’s range.
The third-generation hybrid transmission evolved on the basis of the 9G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission. The torque converter, clutch and electric motor are housed in the innovative hybrid drive unit. The compact design was achieved by integrating and connecting the separating clutch, torsional vibration damper and torque converter lock-up clutch within the rotor of the electric motor.
Intelligent operating strategy with ECO Assist
The S560e provides comprehensive support to promote anticipatory and economical driving: the driver is prompted when it is appropriate to release the accelerator–for example when the S-Class is approaching a speed limit–and is assisted by innovative functions such as gliding and recuperation. To this end, navigation data, traffic sign recognition and information from the intelligent safety assistants (radar and stereo camera) are networked and processed.
Pre-entry climate control: more comfort as standard
The standard equipment for the S560e is extensive and includes special features such as extended pre-entry climate control. The S-Class is air-conditioned to the preset temperature ready for the start of the trip, assuming the driver has entered the departure time, for example via the Mercedes me app. This is possible due to the electrically driven refrigerant compressor and electric heating elements.
One of the broadest portfolios of plug-in hybrids
Because the strengths of plug-in hybrids come to the fore in larger vehicles and on mixed route profiles, Mercedes-Benz is opting for this powertrain concept from the C-Class on up. The strategic hybrid initiative is decisively facilitated by Mercedes-Benz’s intelligent modular hybrid concept: it is scalable to allow it to be transferred to a large number of model series and body styles as well as left- and right-hand-drive variants.
Mercedes-Benz has one of the broadest ranges of plug-in hybrids in the premium segment. In the U.S. this includes the C350e Sedan, GLE550e 4MATIC SUV, GLC350e 4MATIC SUV and the new S560e, the successor to the S550e. Globally, Mercedes-Benz also offers the C350e wagon and longwheelbase sedan, GLC350e 4MATIC Coupe and E350e Sedan.
Tags: Mercedes-Benz S560e
