Mercedes-Benz ML 450 hybrid
ML 450 hybrid was first shown at the Frankfurt Auto Show back in 2007. Mercedes had some problems with the batteries beginning of 2008, which slowed down the launch of ML450. Just a reminder that the problem was not technical, company called Cobasys refused to start the production for some strange reasons(Cobasys is owned by Chevron).
Now ML 450 hybrid is back on track and has made it to the New York Auto Show. Power comes from an Atkinson V6 gasoline engine that develops 279 horsepower, this engine is mated to an electric engine so that the final output is 335 horsepower.
This two-mode hybrid technology supports purely electric and purely combustion engine operation or combination of the two. Purely on the 288V NM battery pack it has a range of 1.8 miles (2.9 km) and a top speed of 34 mph (54 km/h).
The Two-Mode hybrid powertrain is developed together with GM and Chrysler. New GLK is also expected to use this system in the near future. Performance figures are on similar to conventional eight-cylinder SUV's with permanent all-wheel drive. Fuel consumption and emission at the same time have been reduced by up to 60%.
[Via: globalmotors]