The hybrid is specifically addressed to the United States market and delivers a 21 mpg fuel consumption rating in urban conditions and 24 mpg in highway environments. Moreover, the hybrid SUV meets US emission regulations, according to a statement by the German manufacturer. Technically, the car produces a maximum power of 250 kW (340 hp) with a combined torque of 517 Nm, while the electric engine puts out 45 kW (60 hp) thanks to the liquid-cooled high-voltage nickel-metal hydride battery.
Compared to the initial 3.5-liter V6 petrol engine, the new unit installed on the hybrid edition comes with modified cylinder head, pistons and camshaft. "The newly developed regulated oil pump adjusts the flow rate to the engine's actual requirements, thus minimizing the necessary delivery rate and helping reduce fuel consumption and emissions," Mercedes explained.
The German manufacturer says the hybrid system is controlled by an internal computer that calculates up to 50 million operations a second to get the best possible emission and fuel efficiency ratings. Furthermore, there are several other technologies aimed at these two factors, including a so-called "Traffic Jam" feature that enables the car to be driven entirely under electric power in stop-and-go traffic even with low battery power.
The combustion engine is turned off every time the car is not in motion, while air conditioning and power steering functions are fully retained. In case the driver presses the throttle, the electric engine is automatically engaged and transmits power to the wheels. However, if the driver applies more power on the pedal, the system automatically detects the need for instant power and activates the combustion engine, with addition torque from the electric unit.
The ML 450 Hybrid is manufactured at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, in the United States.
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