November 13th, 2009

Mercedes-Benz will launch the ML450 Hybrid (Photo: PRNewsFoto/Mercedes-Benz USA)

From Green Right Now Reports

Mercedes-Benz said today that on Nov. 16 it will launch the first European full hybrid vehicle to be offered in the US. The company said the ML450 Hybrid will feature “V8-like power with four-cylinder fuel economy.”

The new Mercedes-Benz ML450 Hybrid uses a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine and two magneto-electric motors that produce 46 percent better fuel economy than a comparable V8-powered ML550 model. The SUV achieves 21 miles per gallon around town and 24 mpg on the highway.

Integrated within the modified automatic transmission, each electric motor serves a specific purpose. Dedicated to pulling away under electric power, the motor on the transmission output shaft generates 80 hp and 192 lb.-ft of torque.

Mercedes-Benz says the second electric motor, located closer to the gasoline engine, is set up specifically for acceleration and is rated at 83 hp and 173 lb.-ft of torque. When both electric motors are in use at full power, the ML450 Hybrid reaches 335 hp and 381 lb.-ft. of torque.

During parking and low-speed operation, the SUV runs on electric drive only. It can drive solely on electric power up to a maximum speed of 34 mph.

The ML450 Hybrid joins Mercedes-Benz’s existing lineup of fuel-efficient and environmentally compatible vehicles that includes the S400 Hybrid and the BlueTEC diesel model.

Mercedes-Benz said the new SUV will be offered as part of a special lease only option (no purchase available) for a monthly price of $659 per month for 36 months and $549 per month for 60 months.