2010 Geneva Auto Show: Mercedes-Benz F 800

Undoubtedly, the star at Mercedes-Benz’s stand at Geneva Auto Show is the F 800 Style research vehicle. The five seater, which is supposed to show the future shape of the next generation CLS, is an executive saloon which has a flexible multi-drive platform, either for electric drive with fuel cells or for a plug-in hybrid - a world-first for large saloons.

"We are dedicated to reconciling our responsibility for the environment with practical customer benefit in an exciting car," says Dr Thomas Weber, the Daimler Board of Management member responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. "The new F 800 Style research vehicle combines this commitment to providing the leading innovative drive concepts with our traditional Mercedes strengths in the areas of design, safety, comfort and outstanding performance.”

This plug-in hybrid has a V6 petrol engine developing around 200 kW (272 hp) with next-generation direct injection, a hybrid module developing around 80 kW (109 hp) and a lithium-ion battery. Thanks to the powerful electric motor, the F 800 can run exclusively on electricity in the city for up to 19 miles (30 km).

The F 800 with plug-in hybrid reaches 62 mph (100 km/h) in 4.8 seconds from a standstill and tops at 155 mph (250 km/h). When running in electric mode, it can reach 75 mph (120 km/h). The vehicle has a fuel consumption of 2.9 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 68 g/km.

"The exciting coupe-like roof line and the vehicle's balanced proportions lend it a stylishly sporty look that reinterprets the Mercedes-Benz design idiom and emphasises the sculptural character of the F 800 Style," says Mercedes-Benz Head of Design Professor Gorden Wagener. "The result is a harmonious blend of innovative form and function, which conveys a sense of great styling and authority."