The plug-in hybrid version of Mercedes-Benz’s S-Class has arrived in SA. It’s not just about efficiency,however: there’s a swift turn of speed to this hybrid as well.

Mercedes-Benz SA has introduced the S500e plug-in hybrid in tandem with the launch of the C300e. The S500e combines a V6 biturbo petrol motor with an 8.7 kWh electric motor for a total power output of 325 kW and 650 Nm of torque. The S500e is capable of operating on its electric motor alone for up to 33 km and in perfect conditions, the S500e is claimed to consume just 2.8 L/100 km.

The first-class Sindelfingen hybrid has two modes of charging… from a wall socket via a cable and plug, as well as through braking energy regeneration, where applying the brakes recuperates some of the battery power. The system within the S500e will also top up the battery when free-wheeling or coasting. The total weight of the lithium-ion battery is 114 kg and takes up 96 litres of space. Mercedes-Benz says it is working on a wireless charging solution as well.

The standard spec within the cabin now includes a pre-entry climate control system. The system can be controlled via the Mercedes Connect Me app and allows the driver to set the cabin temperature from outside the car. So long as a departure time is keyed in, the S-Class will adjust the temperature in the cabin so when you enter the vehicle the temperature is exactly as you set.

In order to strengthen customers' trust in the new, plug-in drive technology, for the S 500 e Mercedes-Benz is issuing a ‘warranty’ on performance characteristics of the high-voltage battery and plug-in hybrid components.This ensures that every technical malfunction within a period of six years after initial delivery or registration, or up to a mileage of 100 000 kilometres, is corrected by Mercedes-Benz.

Pricing

As of September 2016, the Mercedes-Benz S500e costs R1875000 and comes with a 6-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.

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