The DIRECT HYBRID from Mercedes-Benz is a concept vehicle based on the S-Class which demonstrates how a further significant reduction in fuel consumption and emissions could be achieved in the near future. At the heart of the concept is an optimised spark-ignition engine with a hybrid system and the latest emission control technology.
The objective for the drive concepts of the near future is to make petrol cars as efficient as diesels, and diesels as clean as petrol cars. Combined, of course, with low fuel consumption, minimal emissions and the highest standards of ride comfort, dynamism and safety.
In the case of petrol engines the main focus is naturally on an even lower fuel consumption. With the second-generation spray-guided petrol direct injection engine, Mercedes-Benz has accomplished a decisive innovative step in this direction. The S 350 concept vehicle featuring petrol direct injection combined with a compact high-torque electric motor integrated into its drivetrain, is termed a "DIRECT HYBRID".
The DIRECT HYBRID belongs to the "mild hybrid" category – vehicles which are able to achieve further significant reductions in their already low fuel consumption, especially in urban stop-and-go traffic. This is made possible by the additional 6-kW/8.2-hp electric motor which is fitted between the engine and the transmission and serves both as a starter and a starter booster. It can also be used to regenerate power from kinetic energy. The petrol engine shuts down whenever it is not in use. When moving off, the combustion engine and the high-torque electric motor complement each other to deliver a powerful and extremely smooth start. Overall, the fuel consumption of the DIRECT HYBRID is 25 percent lower than that of a comparable series-production model.
It has a combined output of 221 kW/300 hp and combined torque of 395 Nm. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.5 seconds, consumes only 8.3 litres per 100 km (NEDC figure) and complies with the world's most stringent emissions standards.
In future, the hybrid - either in mild or full hybrid form - can supplement the combustion engine in those regions and traffic situations where it represents a reasonable and economical option for increasing dynamics, comfort and fuel efficiency.
