Mercedes-Benz to begin sales of Hybrid S-Class in Japan in October

Mercedes-Benz S 400 BlueHYBRID

The Nikkei reports that Mercedes-Benz Japan Co. will begin sales of the S400 BlueHYBRID (earlier post) in October. This will be the first imported hybrid passenger car sold in Japan.

It could also end up being the first imported car to take advantage of the tax breaks on eco-friendly cars coming into effect this April. Prices have not yet been set, but the hybrid S-Class will very likely sell for around 12-13 million yen. [US$129,000-139,000].

Daimler AG will begin sales of the hybrid in Europe during the first half of 2009.

3.5-liter V6 with 15 kW electric motor

The S400 BlueHYBRID combines a modified 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine that delivers 205 kW (279 hp) of power with a 120V, 15 kW electric motor and a starting torque of 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque. The combined system delivers power of 220 kW (299 hp) and a combined maximum torque of 385 Nm (284 lb-ft), with fuel consumption of 7.9 L/100km (30 mpg US) and CO2 emissions of 190 g/km. The S 400 hybrid is one of seven hybrid models Daimler announced in September 2007 that will be rolled out over the next few years.

[Source : NIKKEI via GCG]