Suppliers to the new Mercedes-Benz's hybrid S 400

ZF, Continental at the heart of Mercedes-Benz's hybrid S 400

The S 400 BlueHYBRID is Mercedes-Benz’s first hybrid passenger vehicle. The automobile is based on the S 350, but has a substantially modified drivetrain, possessing a modified 279 hp V6 3.5-liter petrol engine and a 20hp electric motor. The hybrid motor generates electrical energy during braking, which is then stored and used when required, typically to assist the main engine during the acceleration. The stored energy is also used to regulate the vehicle’s start/stop function. This function turns off the engine when the car is at a standstill, but restarts the engine when moving off preventing wastage due to idling. The vehicle has a fuel consumption of 7.9 liters per 100 km.