Mercedes-Benz Reveals the S500 Plug-In Hybrid

We’ve known Mercedes has been planning an S-Class plug-in hybrid since 2009’s Vision S500 Plug-In Hybrid concept. In July we reported the production version would be unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Now Mercedes-Benz has revealed the S500 Plug-In Hybrid.

First off, we’re really impressed with a land yacht that can get 78 mpg and fling you to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds. Most of that good acceleration can be attributed to the S-Class hybrid’s 3.0L turbo V6 pumping to the rhythm of 328-horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid’s electric motor makes things more interesting by throwing 107 more horses, and 250 more “torques” into the pot of thrust. This is a car that provokes you to bounce off its 155-mph governor. On the flip side, a light breath on the accelerator will allow about 18 miles of gas-free cruising in E-MODE.

We are expecting the S500 Plug-In Hybrid to go on sale in 2014. Pricing should be competitive with the S550, especially in California. MBWorld forum member joshg1001 points out, “With the federal tax credit of $7,500 and [California’s] tax credit of $2,500, there is a chance that this car would be cheaper than the S550.”

via [Motor Authority]